Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells, either by killing the cells or by stopping them from dividing. Chemotherapy may be given by mouth, injection, or infusion, or on the skin, depending on the type and stage of the cancer being treated. It may be given alone or with other treatments, such as surgery, radiation therapy, or biologic therapy. It uses powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells. Unlike radiation or surgery, which target specific areas, chemo can work throughout your body. It targets cells that grow and divide quickly, as cancer cells do. That's what causes some of the side effects from the treatment.
Post-chemotherapy cognitive impairment (PCCI) (also known as chemotherapy-induced cognitive dysfunction, chemo brain, or chemo fog) describes the cognitive impairment that can result from chemotherapy treatment. Approximately 20–30% of people who undergo chemotherapy experience some level of post-chemotherapy cognitive impairment. The phenomenon first came to light because of the large number of breast cancer survivors who complained of changes in memory, fluency, and other cognitive abilities that impeded their ability to function as they had pre-chemotherapy.
According to Ayurveda the side effects of Chemotherapy are seen as the manifestation of aggravated pitta and vata dosha. The treatment session in post chemo therapy is divided like:
Patients should avoid all processed ,genetically engineered foods,refined sugars,foods with additives .They also should avoid over eating, too much water with meals. Proper resting must be there after meals. Food should contain large amount of vegetables.
The role of mind in healing is much emphasized as mental disturbances can cause physical disturbances. Positive thinking activates immune system and supports healing. Healing begins with purification of mind. Periods of silence along eith lack of sensory stimulation are taken as the best methods for purification of mind
Patients are benefitted from spending more time in nature, taking walks in garden. They can be benefitted by reducing stress and engaging in activities that bring joy and is encouraged to pursue their love of arts, music, writing, and other forms of self expression.
Those asanas or postures that control blood pressure, heart rate and body temperature, keep the mind calm at the same time and improve the blood circulation are done
Medicines with ayurveda herbs like Guduchi, Shunti, Rasona, Haridra, Punarnnava etc along with suitable external therapies
Ayurveda herbs and therapies are pharmacologically safe, can be used alone or can be used along with the chemotherapeutic agent to enhance therapeutic effects and minimize chemo therapy induced toxicity and also to improve the general well being of the person.
