Why do treatments for cancer cause loss of hair and severe nausea by irritation the gastrointestinal lining?

Treatments for cancer do not typically cause loss of hair and severe nausea by irritating the gastrointestinal lining.

Hair loss, also known as alopecia, is a common side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs. Chemotherapy drugs work by killing rapidly dividing cancer cells, but they can also affect other rapidly dividing cells in the body, such as those in the hair follicles. As a result, hair loss can occur during chemotherapy treatment.

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of certain chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy. These side effects occur due to the effects of these treatments on the digestive system. Chemotherapy drugs and radiation therapy can damage the cells in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Additionally, some chemotherapy drugs can stimulate a part of the brain known as the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), which controls vomiting. These effects usually pass within a few days or weeks after completing treatment.

It's important to note that not all cancer treatments cause loss of hair and severe nausea. The side effects of treatment will depend on the specific drugs or therapies used and can vary from person to person. It's essential to discuss potential side effects of treatment with a medical professional before starting therapy.