Ovarian Colorado

Information for Patients

• Overview
  • What are the Ovaries?
  • What is Ovarian Cancer?
  • What is Your Risk?
  • Warning Signs
  • Diagnosis
• Genetics
  • Family History
  • Genetic Testing
• Your Health Care Team
• Treatment
  • Types of Treatments
  • Clinical Trials
  • Side Effects
• Complementary Therapies
  • Highlighted Therapy
  • Archives
• Emotional Support
• Survivors' Stories
• Resources
  • Web Sites
  • Colorado Resources
  • References
  • Support Groups
• Worksheets
• Para Mujeres Latinas
  • ¿Cuál es su Riesgo?
  • Signos de Advertencia
  • Hojas Informativas
• Home

Side Effects of Treatment

The initial treatment for ovarian cancer for most patients is surgery to remove or reduce the size of the tumor and to complete an extensive staging process. There are obvious movement and weight lifting restrictions immediately after surgery, however increased mobility and energy levels should increase with time.

Chemotherapy kills cancer cells as well as normal cells in the body. Because of this action of the medication, there are side effects of chemotherapy. The symptoms are temporary and can include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss and mouth sores. Every patient should work closely with their oncologist to manage these symptoms.

Chemotherapy also effects the production of certain cells in the body which can result in low blood counts. Low blood counts can lower your ability to fight infection, causing bruising and fatigue. Your oncologist will order regular blood work to keep track of the levels of white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets and to help you manage these side effects.