As we all know, chemotherapy is a common treatment for various types of cancer. Even though it is a standard procedure to treat malignancy, the administration of chemotherapy can be quite different for each patient and this depends on their type of cancer. Chemotherapy medication can be given orally with a pill or injected systemically intravenously. Children suffering from cancer may also undergo chemotherapy and this have been quite effect to improve the five year survival rate for children. With developments of chemotherapy, more and more children suffering from cancer can continue living healthy normal lives.

Since chemotherapy is a vital part of cancer management most children suffering from cancer are recommended to undergo this procedure since chemotherapy itself actively destroys malignant cancer cells. For children chemotherapy treatment is usually administered intravenously so the drug can travel systemically through the blood vessels rather than orally with pills.

There are various factors that should be considered before deciding the type of chemotherapy a child undergoes. These factors include the age, height, and weight of the child but most importantly the histological type of the cancer.

Basically chemotherapy has been known to induce several side effects which include vomiting, nausea, hair loss, chills, fever, and fatigue. In any case a child who is undergoing chemotherapy experiences high fever or continuous bleeding, you must take extra care. It is essential to consult your pediatrician quickly since it may be a sign of infection.

Skin rashes are also another troublesome side effect of chemotherapy. Babies and younger children usually develop these rashes during the process of chemotherapy. It is advisable to apply topical medications such as cod liver oil or zinc cream to prevent pain from these blisters. Other creams like Desitin or Comforts for Baby can be used to decrease discomfort caused by these rashes.

A specific but rare condition can occur when the volume of white blood cells in the blood stream decreases. This condition is followed by several side effects including sore throat, urination pains, coughing and stuffy nose.

Furthermore it is essential for parents to understand and educate themselves about cancer and chemotherapy to assist managing their child’s disease. There are multiple sources of information which can be acquired through books, cancer support groups and even consulting an expert.