In her recent YouTube blog, actor Dipika Kakar, who has been recovering from stage 2 liver cancer, shared that her tumour markers have finally returned to normal. “The three-month report of the tumour markers is normal. Since they are very normal, there is no need to do the FAPI scan until two more months because the tumour markers are much more sensitive in nature,” the Sasural Simar Ka actor said.
However, she added that the “side effects are still there.” “But I think I have become more used to it now. The only thing is hairfall. Hairfall is scary. Bahut zyaada gir rahe hai…Jab main nahakar aati hun toh main 15 minute kisi se baat nahi karti because hairfall is a lot. (They have been falling a lot lately. When I come out of the shower, I don’t talk at least for 15 minutes because hairfall is a lot). That is fearful for me,” said Kakar, adding, “rest everything is fine”.
In the video, she also informed her fans that her husband, Shoaib Ibrahim, has not been keeping well due to the change in weather.
Why cancer patients may experience hairfall (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Is hairfall a common side effect post-cancer treatment?
Dr Meghal Sanghavi, oncosurgeon, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, explained that hair loss and fatigue are among the most visible signs of cancer treatment. “They are not always linked to the tumour itself but to the medications used, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or certain oral drugs. These treatments attack fast-growing cells, and unfortunately, hair follicles are included in that group. So even with positive reports and the cancer under control, patients can still experience side effects because the body is healing from the effects of the therapy,” explained Dr Sanghavi.
What can be done to manage these side effects?
It is important to reassure patients that these side effects are usually temporary and do not indicate that the disease has worsened.
“For hair loss, we recommend gentle scalp care, a diet rich in protein, and sometimes supplements that encourage hair growth once treatment slows down. Scalp cooling caps during chemotherapy may also help reduce hair loss. Emotional support is equally important; dealing with sudden changes in appearance can be as tough as handling the physical treatment,” said Dr Sanghavi.
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Do side effects mean their cancer is returning?
Side effects do not automatically mean a relapse, asserted Dr Sanghavi. “Reports like tumour markers or imaging scans are more reliable indicators of disease status. Side effects usually reflect the body’s reaction to medication. However, if new or unusual symptoms arise, patients should always consult their oncologist instead of trying to self-diagnose,” said Dr Sanghavi.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
