Side Effects of Melanoma Treatments: What to Expect and How to Manage Them

Melanoma is an aggressive type of skin cancer, often treated with a combination of therapies. These therapies can cause significant side effects. It’s important to know what to expect. Your dermatologist can help you manage the side effects of melanoma treatment. Dermatologist Dr. Clifford Lober provides a wide range of dermatology services, including melanoma diagnosis, treatment, and management. He has two convenient office locations in Kissimmee and Ocoee, FL.

What You Need to Know About Melanoma

Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and can be deadly. You are at greater risk of developing melanoma if you have fair skin and freckles, have a family history of melanoma, or sunburn quickly and severely.

If you have had a biopsy and received a diagnosis of melanoma, your dermatologist may recommend one or more of these methods of treatment:

• Surgical excision to remove the cancerous cells
• Mohs micrographic surgery to remove melanoma layer-by-layer, with each layer examined under a microscope
• Radiation therapy to kill cancerous cells
• Chemotherapy is used in combination with surgery and radiation to eliminate cancerous tissue

If you have melanoma surgery with no additional treatment, you may be concerned about your appearance after surgery. Your dermatologist can recommend several plastic surgery and aesthetic procedures to minimize the effects of surgery.

If you have radiation therapy, hair loss and skin changes are common concerns. Your dermatologist offers several options to help regrow hair and enhance the appearance of your skin.

If you have chemotherapy, a variety of symptoms are common, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and lack of energy. There are steps you can take to manage these symptoms. Consider:

• Taking acetaminophen to reduce symptoms
• Resting frequently to boost energy
• Drinking plenty of fluids to keep hydrated
• Eating a healthy diet to provide enough nutrients
• Eating several small meals to help avoid nausea
• Asking for help from family and friends

Want To Know More About Melanoma Treatment and Management?

Talk with an expert to learn more about what to expect and how to manage the side effects of melanoma treatment. Call dermatologist Dr. Clifford Lober. You can reach him in the Kissimmee, FL, office by calling (407) 846-7166 or in Ocoee, FL, by calling (407) 656-9700, so call today.