What Are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy Beads?

While chemotherapy has established itself as an effective treatment against cancer, the side effects are severe. With the presence of the medication in bead form, the chemo is released exclusively in the affected region, minimizing side effects traditionally experienced.

Energy

• The biggest side effect from chemotherapy beads is overall fatigue. Patients who have beads injected often feel continued signs of drowsiness.

Treatment

• At this time, the use of beads is not considered an actual cure for live cancer, but rather just a treatment. It has been known to shrink the tumor, but never remove it completely.

Illness

• While the chemo beads minimize the effects of the chemo on the rest of the body, it is still possible for the patient to experience some mild nausea or other mild illnesses.

Risks

• In some cases, the organs near the beads can be at risk. When a bead drifts too far away from the tumor it may cause damage to other parts in the body.

Appearance

• In terms of physical side effects, chemo has always been known most for causing hair loss. There is still some risk for hair loss with chemotherapy beads, although like the other side effects, it is much reduced.