Chemotherapy is a debilitating procedure in cancer treatment that is known to cause hair loss in patients. There are various drugs used in chemotherapy according to the specialization of treatment. The type of chemical used in chemotherapy determines hair loss patterns, affected regions in the body and the duration of hair loss episodes.
Why Chemotherapy Causes Hair Loss
The treatment involves the use of powerful drugs that target all rapidly dividing cells toward eliminating malignant mutations. However, the treatment also destroys healthy hair follicle cells (which are some of the fastest growing cells in the human body) in the process. Hence, it usually leads to temporary hair loss in patients.
Chemotherapy Drugs Known to Cause Hair Loss
Not all chemotherapy drugs are known to pose a high risk of causing hair loss. In fact, some drugs such as paraplatin, gliadel and mutamicin are rarely known to cause hair loss symptoms in patients.
Here is a list of some chemotherapy drugs that are commonly linked to hair loss symptoms:
Adriamycin – causes complete hair loss on scalp and have been known to affect the hair on eyelashes and eyebrows in some cases. Hair loss usually occurs within two to three weeks of treatment.
Taxol – Usually causes hair loss throughout the body, which include chest, eyelashes, eyebrows, forearms, legs and pubic areas.
Cytoxan – hair loss varies among individuals; some patients may experience mild hair thinning while others may be affected with total hair loss from scalp.
Ixempra – an estimated 30% of patients will experience hair loss in varying degrees.
Dealing with Chemotherapy-related Hair Loss
It is important to speak with your doctor before starting on a chemotherapy round to mentally prepare yourself for any possible side-effects of hair loss. Patients may cover up bald areas with a wig, scarf or hat to provide themselves with more confidence during the stages of hair recovery. Hair loss caused by chemotherapy is highly treatable and most patients usually experience normal hair growth shortly upon ceasing chemotherapy sessions, often without the need for hair regrowth treatments.
Genesis II, our highest quality medical wigs give women the confidence to socialize with family and friends, and carry on their professional lives while maintaining as much privacy about their hair loss condition or treatments as they wish. To schedule a free consultation call us at (315) 458-1074 or to contact us via email click here.
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