Medical advancements in cancer treatment can save your life – but some forms of treatment can come with unwanted side effects that show up, in some instances, years later.
As with any medication or medical procedure, there are risks involved that will be part of your conversation with your doctor. In the majority of situations, choosing not to treat cancer isn’t a life-sustaining option, so some long-term side effects just come with the territory.
What are some long-term side effects of cancer treatment?
In surgery for cancer that removed lymph nodes, lymphedema can occur afterward. Lymphedema is a buildup of fluid under the skin that causes swelling and pain. There’s no cure for lymphedema, but it can be managed with physical therapy by a certified lymphedema specialist.
With chemotherapy, the long-term side effects depend on the specific type of chemo drugs used for your specific cancer.
“Many of the treatments that we use will put women into early menopause, which can certainly impact your quality of life in terms of hot flashes, night sweats and bone health from having estrogen taken away at an early age,” said Dr. Kevin Schuler, gynecologic oncologist at St. Elizabeth’s Cancer Care Center in Edgewood.
Both chemotherapy and radiation may lead to infertility. For women of child-bearing age, questions about future fertility – and options available – are often discussed before treatment begins.
“Cancer treatment often leads to infertility, so for women of child bearing age that are still interested in child bearing we often will have a fertility specialist talk to them about their options,” Schuler said.
Anything else?
Cancer treatments can potentially also lead to cataracts, osteoporosis, nerve damage, memory problems, intestinal issues and problems with your heart, lungs or liver, according to the Mayo Clinic, which offers a full list of possible late side effects.
Rarely, a secondary cancer can develop.
“In rare circumstances, you can have a cancer come about as a result of chemotherapy or radiation. It is not common, but can happen,” Schuler said.
While the list of possible long-term side effects may seem daunting, these cancer treatments have saved many lives.
