Company logo
Get Listed

Get answers for your health queries from top Doctors for FREE!

100% Privacy Protection

100% Privacy Protection

We maintain your privacy and data confidentiality.

Verified Doctors

Verified Doctors

All Doctors go through a stringent verification process.

Quick Response

Quick Response

All Doctors go through a stringent verification process.

Reduce Clinic Visits

Reduce Clinic Visits

Save your time and money from the hassle of visits.

  1. Home /
  2. Blogs /
  3. Chemotherapy and Heart Failure: Managing Health Challenges

Chemotherapy and Heart Failure: Managing Health Challenges

Understand the risk of chemotherapy-induced heart failure. Learn about preventive measures, early detection, and tailored treatments for better heart health during cancer therapy.

  • Cancer
  • Heart
By Shweta Kulshreshtha 27th Sept '23 22nd Mar '24
Blog Banner Image

Can chemotherapy cause heart failure?

Chemotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, offering hope and a fighting chance to countless individuals. However, like any powerful medical intervention, it comes with its own set of potential side effects and risks. One such risk that demands our attention is the association between chemotherapy and heart failure.

Studies have shown that heart failure due to chemotherapy affects about 5 to 15% of cancer patients. But the risks associated vary depending on the type of chemotherapy drugs used, their dosage and the underlying health conditions.

Chemotherapy-induced heart failure can occur when the drugs damage the heart muscle. Some drugs can cause inflammation or scarring of the heart muscle. Chemotherapy can also weaken the heart muscle by causing low blood count or anemia. 

But heart failure due to chemotherapy can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Talk to your doctor about the risks involved.

Your health is too important to ignore – schedule your appointment now.

Some measures to protect yourself from chemotherapy-induced heart failure are:

  • Consult your doctor about the risks and benefits of different chemotherapy drugs.
  • Ask about alternative methods to treat your cancer, such as targeted therapy or immunotherapy.
  • Get regular checkups and heart tests during and after chemotherapy.
  • Adopt a heart healthy diet and exercise regularly.
  • Manage underlying health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

If you develop heart failure after chemotherapy, your doctor will develop a specific treatment plan. Treatment may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

How does chemotherapy lead to heart failure?

The specific mechanisms by which chemotherapy-induced heart failure occurs can vary depending on the drug used and your individual profile. 

According to a study, individuals who received cancer treatment were found to have a threefold increased risk of developing heart failure within five years of their cancer diagnosis compared to those without cancer. Within 20 years, 10% of cancer survivors had developed heart failure compared to 6% of people without cancer.

Some of the ways in which your chemotherapy drugs can contribute to heart failure are:

  • Cardiotoxicity: Some chemotherapy drugs are directly toxic to the heart muscle, leading to cardiotoxicity. This can weaken your heart's ability to pump blood effectively, eventually leading to heart failure. The occurrence of clinical heart failure seems to be in the range of 1% to 5%, and an asymptomatic decrease in heart function is in the range of 5% to 20%. Toxicity can occur as early as the first year.  
  • High doses: Chemotherapy in high doses can cause heart failure. Studies show that with the current maximum dosing limit, 7 in every 100 people who are given doxorubicin will develop heart failure.
  • Oxidative Stress: Chemotherapy drugs can generate oxidative stress within the body, due to free radicals. This can damage heart cells and tissues, potentially leading to heart failure.
  • Inflammation: Chemotherapy can trigger inflammatory responses. Chronic inflammation leads to changes in the structure and function of the heart muscle. This can over time cause heart failure.
  • Reduced Blood Supply: Some chemotherapy drugs reduce the blood supply to the heart muscle. When the heart muscle is deprived of enough oxygen and nutrients, it can become weaker and less efficient at pumping blood.
  • Electrolyte Imbalances: Imbalance between electrolytes potassium and calcium can cause irregular heart rhythms.
  • Pre-existing cardiac issues: If you suffer from hypertension, atherosclerosis, or heart disease, you are more susceptible to chemotherapy-induced heart failure.

Discuss with your doctor the choice of chemotherapy drugs and the monitoring of cardiac function.

Take the first step to recovery. Get in touch with us for your treatment.

Let's take a look at some of the symptoms of heart failure that can be seen after chemotherapy.

What are the symptoms of heart failure during or after chemotherapy?

Some of the symptoms of heart failure during or after chemotherapy are:

  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath, during physical activity or when lying down, is a common symptom of heart failure. This is because your heart's reduced ability to pump blood effectively.
  • Fatigue: Unexplained and persistent fatigue or weakness which reduces your ability to perform daily activities. 
  • Swelling: Swelling in your legs, ankles, feet, or abdomen can occur due to fluid retention, commonly seen in heart failure.
  • Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Heart palpitations, a racing heartbeat, or irregular heart rhythms may indicate heart issues.
  • Persistent Cough: A chronic cough, with pink, frothy mucus, indicates fluid buildup in the lungs, a symptom of heart failure.
  • Weight Gain: Sudden and unexplained weight gain, often due to fluid retention.
  • Decreased physical activity: This may be seen without experiencing breathlessness or fatigue. 
  • Chest Pain or Discomfort: You may see chest pain or discomfort, resembling angina.
  • Dizziness or Fainting: This can occur due to reduced blood flow to the brain, which may be related to heart dysfunction.
  • Changes in Mental Alertness: Reduced blood flow to your brain can lead to confusion or difficulty in concentrating.

Wondering how this condition is treated? We have got you covered! Read more to find out.

How is chemotherapy-induced heart failure treated?

Look at the management strategies for chemotherapy-induced heart failure:

Treatment/Management

Description

MedicinesACE inhibitors, Beta-blockers and Diuretics.
Cardiac RehabilitationTo improve your heart health and quality of life.
Lifestyle Modifications Dietary changes, like reduced salt intake, maintain a healthy weight, with regular, safe physical activity. Stop smoking 
Fluid and Sodium RestrictionIf you see severe fluid retention, then limit your fluid and sodium intake. 
Regular Monitoring Ongoing monitoring of cardiac function with echocardiograms.
Adjustments to ChemotherapyYour doctor may modify the chemotherapy regimen. Decrease the dose of cardiotoxic drugs. Consider alternative treatments with lower cardiac risk.
Heart Transplant or DevicesIf your case is severe and not responding to any medical therapy.

Is it safe to continue chemotherapy if heart problems develop during treatment?

It depends on the following factors:

  • Specific heart condition: Asymptomatic and mild cardiac problems may not require you to discontinue your chemotherapy. 
  • Severity of heart problems: If you show severe symptoms you will have to discontinue or modify the treatment (only as per your doctor's advice). 
  • Chemotherapy drugs being used: Some chemotherapy drugs are more harmful to the heart than others. If the heart problems are directly related to such a drug, then your doctors will change to a less cardiotoxic drug, which will still effectively treat your cancer.
  • Continued monitoring: Regular echocardiograms and other cardiac tests can check your heart during chemotherapy.
  • Cardioprotective Measures: Medicines or interventions may be used to minimize the impact of chemotherapy on the heart, allowing treatment to continue safely.
  • Your overall health: If your cancer is at an advanced stage, then your doctor will find ways to manage the heart problems while continuing with a modified chemotherapy plan. Collaboration between your oncologists and cardiologists is required to develop your treatment plan. 

Your well-being is our priority - call us to book your appointment today.

Is heart failure from chemotherapy reversible?

Generally, the reversibility of your chemotherapy-induced heart failure depends on various factors like:

  • Early Detection: If heart problems are identified early, treatment measures can be implemented to prevent further damage and potentially reverse some of the effects.
  • Severity of Cardiac Damage: Mild or moderate cardiac damage is more likely to be reversible with appropriate treatment, while severe damage may be more challenging to reverse completely.
  • Specific Chemotherapy Drugs: Some chemotherapy drugs have a higher risk of causing reversible cardiac damage. Some drugs may even cause permanent damage to your heart. It can also depend on the dosage.
  • Cardioprotective Measures: Cardioprotective medicine and procedures may improve your heart function. This could involve taking drugs like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and lifestyle modifications.
  • Overall Health: Your overall health, including other underlying diseases, can be a contributing factor.
  • Recovery Period: Ongoing monitoring during the long recovery period is essential. 

Sometimes, it can be reversed with timely intervention and appropriate treatment. But in case of failure of reversal, it may lead to permanent heart damage. Consult your medical practitioner for your personalized treatment. 

References:

Related Blogs

Blog Banner Image

Cancer Treatment in India: Costs, Hospitals, Doctors 2024

Discover cutting-edge cancer treatment in India. Renowned specialists, advanced technology ensure comprehensive care and better outcomes. Explore options today!

Blog Banner Image

Eye Cancer Treatment in India: Advanced Care Solutions

Explore advanced eye cancer treatment in India. Renowned specialists, state-of-the-art facilities ensure comprehensive care and better outcomes. Discover options today!

Blog Banner Image

Organ Specific Cancer Treatment in India

Organ-specific cancer treatment in India. Explore cutting-edge therapies, compassionate care, and renewed possibilities for healing. Learn more now!

Blog Banner Image

Best Medical Tourism Companies in India 2024 List

Discover excellence in healthcare with top-rated Medical Tourism Companies in India. Your journey to world-class treatment begins here.

Blog Banner Image

PET Scan in Mumbai: Revealing Insights with Advanced Imaging

You’ll find all the available details for the PET scan in Mumbai on this page.

Blog Banner Image

Dr. Sandeep Nayak - Best Oncologist in Bangalore

Dr. Sandeep Nayak - Best oncologist in Bangalore. Experience of 19 years. Consults at Fortis, MACS & Ramakrishna. To book an appointment, call @ +91-98678 76979

Blog Banner Image

10 Best Hospitals in Istanbul - Updated 2023

Looking for the best hospital in Istanbul? Here is a compact list for you of the 10 Best Hospitals in Istanbul.

Blog Banner Image

15 Best Places of Hair Donation for Cancer Patients in India

Explore the best places for hair donation for cancer patients in India. Join the meaningful movement with our guide to Hair Donation for Cancer Patients in India, making a positive impact with every strand

Question and Answers

Bp range is 90 160 is need to consult doctor it's emergency condition or not

Female | 59

A blood pressure reading between 90/60 and 160/100 is usually fine. However, if your BP stays above 160/100, it's important to see a cardiologist. High blood pressure can be dangerous and may lead to serious health issues like heart disease, even without symptoms. Eating healthy and quitting bad habits can help manage hypertension, but it's best to consult a doctor for personalized advice.

Answered on 18th Sept '24

Dr. Babita Goel

Dr. Babita Goel

Can u cure the 1st stage of cancer

Male | 40

When we talk about cancer, early detection is the key. The 1st stage signifies that the tumors are still small and have not developed into metastasis yet. Symptoms may not be obvious, but you might notice some unusual body changes. Causes may differ, but always it is not clear why they emerge. The main solution for 1st-stage cancer is to remove or destroy the abnormal cells through treatments like surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. The end goal of these therapies is to eliminate cancer and prevent its recurrence. Timely diagnosis and treatment are the factors controlling successful acute leukemia treatment in the first stage.

Answered on 4th Sept '24

Dr. Donald Babu

Dr. Donald Babu

Cancer Hospitals In Other Cities

Top Related Speciality Doctors In Other Cities

Cost Of Related Treatments In Country

Consult