Hina Khan Chemotherapy: Hina Khan had to cut her hair due to breast cancer!

Hina Khan Chemotherapy: Hina Khan had to cut her hair due to breast cancer. During this, her eyes were definitely moist, but she showed a lot of courage and happily embraced this change. But do you know why she decided to cut her hair short before chemotherapy? If not, then this article is for you-

Hina Khan, who won everyone's heart as Akshara in the serial Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai... is in the third stage of breast cancer. This news has shocked everyone. She is constantly sharing health updates for her fans on social media. Recently, an emotional video has surfaced in which she is seen getting her long hair cut. You can cry just by watching it. But why does one have to cut hair before cancer treatment? You can know about it here-

Dr Raman Narang, Senior Consultant-Medical Oncologist, Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat explains that chemotherapy is an important part of the fight against cancer. However, it also has some side effects that the patient has to deal with. Of these, hair loss is one of the most visible and emotionally challenging experiences for women. 

Why does hair fall during chemotherapy?  

Chemotherapy is designed to target and destroy every single cancer cell. In such a situation, when this therapy is given to the patient, other cells also come under its grip. Hair follicles are among the fastest-growing cells in the body. Due to this, its effect is more visible on the hair. It affects not only the head but also the eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair.

Hair Care During Chemotherapy

Hair loss typically begins three to four weeks after starting chemotherapy. At this time, the hair needs more care. This includes using mild shampoos and conditioners and avoiding excessive brushing or styling, as well as moisturizing the scalp to keep it healthy and reduce dryness or itching.

Is hair growth normal after chemotherapy?

The good news is that hair loss from chemotherapy is usually temporary. Hair begins to grow back a few weeks after completing treatment, although the new hair may initially have a different texture or color. Over time, most patients find that their hair returns to its pre-chemotherapy state.

Is it necessary to cut hair before chemotherapy?

Cutting off all your hair before starting chemotherapy is a personal choice and not a medical necessity. Some people choose to cut their hair before chemotherapy. This may be due to:

• Shaving your head before hair loss begins can provide a sense of control over an otherwise uncontrollable situation.
• As the hair starts to fall out, it can cause a mess and discomfort. Short hair can minimize this problem.
• With shorter hair, the loss process may be less noticeable, reducing the emotional impact.

Other side effects of chemotherapy

Fatigue – Almost all patients undergoing chemotherapy experience fatigue, which can affect daily activities.

Nausea and vomiting – These are common and may occur immediately after treatment or may persist for a few days. 

Loss of appetite – Taste and smell changes, as well as nausea, can cause a loss of appetite.

Mouth sores – Also known as mucositis, these painful sores can affect eating and drinking leading to reduced food intake. 

Diarrhea or constipation – Digestive problems can arise due to the effects of chemotherapy on the gastrointestinal tract. 

Drop in blood cell count – Chemotherapy can reduce the production of blood cells, leading to anemia, increased risk of infection, and easy bruising or bleeding.

Cognitive changes – Sometimes referred to as 'chemo brain', patients may experience memory loss and difficulty concentrating.