Why do I feel more poorly after chemotherapy for colorectal cancer?

Doctor's Answer

Chemotherapy drugs target cancer cells but they also affect organs where there is a high cell turnover, such as the liver, intestines and kidneys. As such, while chemotherapy will destroy cancer cells, the drugs can also harm these vital organs.

When the chemotherapy drug effect is over, these vital organs will recover. As the liver, intestine and kidney are recovering from the effect of chemotherapy, you may feel lethargic.

Please speak to your oncologist about what you can do to help you recover faster from the lethargy of chemotherapy. Maintain a healthy and balanced diet at all times during chemotherapy. It is also important for you to remain physically active and exercise regularly. It will help you recover faster as well.

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