Booklet: What You Need to Know about Laryngeal Cancer

Side Effects of Treatment

The methods used to treat cancer are very powerful. It is hard to limit the effects of therapy so that only cancer cells are removed or destroyed; healthy cells also may be damaged. That's why treatment often causes unpleasant side effects.

The side effects of cancer treatment vary. They depend mainly on the type and extent of the treatment. Also, each person reacts differently. Doctors try to plan the patient's therapy to keep problems to a minimum. Doctors, nurses, dietitians, and speech pathologists can explain the side effects of treatment and suggest ways to deal with them. It may also help to talk with another patient. In many cases, a social worker or another member of the medical team can arrange a visit with someone who has had the same treatment.

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