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Low red cell counts after chemo
I still have low red cell counts after being off chemo for a month. Did/does anyone have/had that problem? How long did it take for the counts be normal? Off of chemo but still doing infusions every three weeks.
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You are not the only one here. It is great to get support and feedback from us living through this. Pls keep posting. Very helpful.
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1 Reaction@debbie0114, chemo doesn't know anything about cancer. Cancer is characterized by rapidly reproducing cells, so chemo kills quickly reproducing cells. Unfortunately, some normal cells, like hair follicles, naturally reproduce quickly. That's why hair falls out when people are on chemo. Unfortunately, bone marrow cells, which manufacture red blood cells (and white blood cells), also reproduce quickly. So, yes, chemo reduces red blood cell counts.
For how long? I can only repeat what every doctor has told me: "Every body is different." I expect it depends on age, overall health, other medications you may be on, your medical history, etc. As much as I personally rebel against the phrase, we lung cancer survivors do have to get used to "the new normal" to some extent. All the best to you!
Thanks so much for the information! I'll have to be more patient. Best of luck to you too!