The Common Side Effects of Taxotere

While cancer remains one of the most feared and deadliest diseases in the world, scientists have devised ways of treating this disease. One of the ways medical professionals are using to treat cancer includes the use of Taxotere also known as Docetaxel. Taxotere has continued to gain popularity as a chemotherapy medication for treating various types of cancer such prostate cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer as well. However, just like any other medication other than treating Taxotere has been known to cause severe side effects. In fact, some individuals have gone to a step of suing medical professionals for not disclosing the Taxotere side effects before treating them. Some of the side effects associated with Taxotere include

High risk of getting an infection

Chemotherapy is known to prevent cells duplication which results in reduced number of white blood cells in the body. Since the white blood cells are responsible for fighting infections, individuals who are undergoing chemotherapy treatment usually get infected easily since they lack enough white blood cells for fighting infection.

Pale look and breathlessness

Just as chemotherapy prevents duplication of white blood cells, it also prevents duplication of red blood cells. Red blood cells contain haemoglobin which is responsible for transporting oxygen to various parts of the body. If you have a low level of blood cells, this means you have low oxygen level which makes you look pale and also feel breathless. If you feel breathless during the treatment inform your doctor so that he/she can take the necessary actions. It is also highly recommended that you have your red blood cells levels tested regularly. If the doctor realizes that your red blood cells are too low, he can recommend a blood transfusion.

Fatigue or weakness

Once you start the treatment, you might start feeling fatigue or weakness. Low red blood cells level is one of the factors that can contribute fatigued. It can take about six months to a year to get back to normal. However, you can start working out to boost your recovery. But you should not push yourself too hard when working out as your body may not be strong enough to withstand extreme exercises.  You should also consider consuming a healthy diet to help you recover quickly.

Excessive bleeding

During the Taxotere treatment, you might notice that your blood does not clot easily. Excessive bleed is also associated with frequent gum bleeds, nosebleeds and easy bruising. The excessive or abnormal bleeding is normally caused by reduced levels of platelets that help the blood to clot. If you notice abnormal bruising or tiny red spots on your body, notify your doctor immediately.

Numbness of hands and feet

The treatment has also been found out to cause tingling or numbness of fingers and twos which can make simples tasks such as buttoning difficult. This is a condition that usually a few days after treatment and can last for several months. It is highly recommended you keep yourself warm and also take care when handling hot things as you might not be able to tell how hot something is.

Hair loss

This is another side effect that occurs differently among individuals. There those who lose their hair permanently and there are those who lose their hair for a short period then it grows back. It is essential that you share your medical history with your doctor so that he can try to minimize the effect.