What are the side effects of targeted therapy? How to prevent them?

1. Targeted therapy: a “precision missile” in the fight against cancer

Targeted therapy is like sending a special forces team to the battlefield of cancer. This team is equipped with the most advanced weapons - targeted drugs, which can accurately identify and attack cancer cells instead of innocent normal cells. Their arrival has brought hope to patients, saving them from the pain of many radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Some patients have also benefited from it and their quality of life has been greatly improved.

2. Side effects of targeted therapy: friendly fire

However, just like on the battlefield, precision missiles may sometimes accidentally injure friendly forces. Although targeted therapy mainly targets cancer cells, it sometimes affects normal cells and causes some side effects. Common side effects of targeted therapy include: adverse skin reactions such as rash, itching, and pigmentation; adverse respiratory reactions such as dyspnea and cough; adverse digestive system reactions such as decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, oral ulcers, liver damage, etc.; adverse cardiovascular system reactions such as hypertension and arrhythmia; adverse blood system reactions such as bone marrow function suppression and bleeding; adverse urinary system reactions include proteinuria and renal damage; other adverse reactions include fatigue, weakness, joint pain, headache, dizziness, and insomnia.

These side effects, while generally milder than those of chemotherapy, can still affect a patient's quality of life, and in some cases, they can be so severe that patients have to temporarily or permanently stop treatment.

3. Prevention and treatment of side effects of targeted therapy - easy to deal with and maintain the rhythm of the battle

Equipment upgrade: precise protection Targeted treatment is bound to cause misfires, and some special protective equipment is needed to prevent side effects.

lSkin shield : Skin is the front line of the battlefield. Keep the skin clean and moisturized, avoid direct sunlight, and put on a layer of bulletproof vest for the skin.

l Gastrointestinal armor : Choose easily digestible food and avoid irritating food to provide solid protection for the gastrointestinal tract.

lHeart, liver, and kidney support organs : Check them regularly; these hard-working organs need special care.

lBlood supply line : Bone marrow is the source of blood. A balanced diet and proper exercise can ensure that the blood supply line is unobstructed.

Tactical Adjustment: Flexible Response In the fight against cancer, we need not only sturdy equipment but also flexible tactics.

lWork closely with doctors : Doctors are commanders on the battlefield and should adjust drug dosages or change drugs in a timely manner to reduce side effects.

lLifestyle optimization : A healthy lifestyle is the logistical guarantee for the battle. A proper diet, adequate rest, and moderate exercise can provide the body with sufficient energy.

lEmotional regulation : Maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude ensures morale on the battlefield and helps us better cope with challenges.

l Knowledge arming : Understand the relevant knowledge of targeted therapy, arm your mind, and make us more calm in the fight against cancer.

4. How to deal with the "double-edged sword"? - Go lightly and face the challenge with a smile

Although the side effects of targeted therapy need attention, we can easily cope with them through these preventive measures and maintain our fighting strength. In this battle, we must not only defeat the disease, but also enjoy life and make every day full of sunshine and hope.

The "double-edged sword" effect of targeted therapy and precise sniping are not without waves, but we can still face the challenge with a smile and go into battle lightly.