Managing Cancer related Side Effects

Overview

In cancer patients, the blood counts are closely monitored because low blood counts can cause serious health issues.

Causes of low blood count in cancer patients

Low blood count due to cancer is a result of –

Chemotherapy

Certain kind of chemotherapy has a damaging effect on bone marrow. This causes low blood count.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy on large bones damages the bone marrow. As a result

Blood cancer and bone marrow cancer

Such cancers occur in the bone marrow and hinder the development of normal blood count.

What is measured in blood counts?

While undergoing cancer treatment, the following blood count is monitored at frequent intervals.

1.White blood cells

White blood cells (neutropenia) act like soldiers. A low level of white blood cells makes a body vulnerable to various infections.

Symptoms of the low count of white blood cells (WBCs)

  • A person with a low WBC count encounters infection and fever
  • Chills
  • Mouth sores
  • Cough
  • Pain in abdomen
  • Pain in rectum

Risk of a low count of WBC in cancer patients

  • It increases the risk of infection
  • Treatment may be delayed or the dosage might be decreased to prevent the further decrease of white blood cell count.

Ways to manage low WBC count

  • Use of antibiotics
  • Certain growth factors are used to increase the white blood cells
  • Treatment may be delayed to increase the WBC count

2.Red blood cells

A low count of red blood cells indicates a low level of hemoglobin and a lesser supply of oxygen to the body parts. This causes fatigue and weakness.

Symptoms of a low count of red blood cells (RBCs)

  • Feeling tired
  • Pale skin (anemia)
  • Dizziness
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Always feeling cold

Risk of a low count of RBC in cancer patient

Anemia is the major risk factor of a low count of red blood cells.

Ways to manage low RBC count in cancer patients

Management of anemia depends upon the underlying cause. Some of the ways to manage anemia are –

  • Transfusion of red blood cells
  • Iron therapy
  • Other medication

3.Platelets

Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) indicated the inability of the blood to clot.

Symptoms of low platelet count

  • Bleeding from nose
  • Unstoppable bleeding
  • Excess bruising

Risk of low platelet count in cancer patients

Excessive bleeding is one of the major risks of low platelet count.

Ways to manage low platelet count in cancer patients

  • Protect your skin from sharp objects
  • Avoid anti-inflammatory pain killers
  • If bleeding from the mouth occurs, rinse it with ice water
  • Avoid constipation and strain while passing stool
  • Do not cough with force
  • Do not blow the nose forcefully

Consult your healthcare provider to know the effect of low blood count. The seriousness or type of problem depends upon the affected blood cells. Your healthcare provider will help you understand the side effects of low blood and count and what to expect.

About Mozocare

Mozocare is a medical access platform for hospitals and clinics to assist patients to access the best medical care at affordable prices. It offers medical information, medical treatment, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, laboratory consumables, and other allied services.

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