What complications may be caused by chemotherapy and radiotherapy for advanced esophageal cancer

Esophageal cancer is a common malignant tumor of the digestive system, which is extremely harmful to health. Patients with advanced esophageal cancer may experience a variety of complications after radiotherapy and chemotherapy, including bone marrow suppression, nausea and vomiting, and radiation pneumonia.

1. Bone marrow suppression

When patients with advanced esophageal cancer receive radiotherapy, the effects of radiation will inhibit the hematopoietic function of the bone marrow, leading to a decrease in white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. At this time, it is necessary to replenish the corresponding blood components in time to maintain normal physiological functions.

2. Nausea and vomiting

Patients with advanced esophageal cancer will experience a series of side effects during radiotherapy due to the effects of drugs, such as nausea and vomiting. If the symptoms are mild, the discomfort can be relieved by dietary adjustment; but if the symptoms are severe, antiemetic drugs need to be used for treatment according to the doctor's instructions.

3. Radiation Pneumonia

After radiotherapy, patients with advanced esophageal cancer will suffer from radiation damage to lung tissue, leading to lung fibrosis and radiation pneumonitis. In this case, patients usually experience symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain, which seriously affect their quality of life.

In addition to the common conditions mentioned above, other conditions may also occur, such as stomatitis, skin ulcers, etc. Patients are advised to follow the doctor's instructions to take medications in a standardized manner, and pay attention to rest and avoid excessive fatigue. At the same time, in daily life, pay attention to maintaining a good attitude and avoid excessive mood swings, so as not to affect recovery from the disease.