Effects of Chemotherapy on the Red Blood Count

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy agents target and kill fast-growing cancer cells but cannot do so exclusively, meaning other cells in the body are also affected, creating unwanted side effects. One of the most lasting side effects of chemotherapy treatment is a decrease in the number of red blood cells.

Red Blood Cells

• The blood contains three types of cells. White blood cells fight infection, platelets help blood clot and red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Because red blood cells carry oxygen, a decrease in red blood cells means there is less oxygen circulating throughout the body. Oxygen is the fuel for the body, so with less fuel, the body has less energy.

Anemia

• A low red blood cell count results in a condition known as anemia. Chemotherapy agents kill cells that are actively multiplying, so the red blood cells affected the most are those that are newly developing. Because red blood cells live for about 120 days, anemia usually sets in later in the treatments, but the anemic condition can last long after treatment has ended.

Symptoms

• The decrease in oxygen levels causes the symptoms of anemia, including shortness of breath, fatigue, lack of energy, dizziness, headaches, rapid heart rate and trouble concentrating. Red blood cells also give skin its healthy pink appearance. With fewer red blood cells, the skin appears pale.

Determination

• Most patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment complain of fatigue--78 percent, according to Patient Advocate Foundation. Since anemia is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy, your doctor will routinely perform a complete blood count (CBC) test. This test provides the count of all the different types of cells within the blood.

Treatment/Management

• There are several treatment options available and steps you can take to manage your anemia. Your doctor can prescribe medications for your chemotherapy-related anemia to stimulate the production of red blood cells. Anemia related to chemotherapy is different from iron-deficiency anemia and should not be treated by adding iron supplements as they will not remedy the condition.

  You can help manage your symptoms by getting plenty of rest and sleep. Maintaining a healthy diet is also crucial. Many patients lose their appetite during chemotherapy, but it is important to continue eating and keep your calorie intake high to help combat the fatigue. Drink plenty of fluids, as dehydration is also a side effect of chemotherapy that leads to a lack of energy and feelings of dizziness and tiredness.