While cancer treatments have become more and more effective in fighting cancer, there’s one major downside—heart problems.
“Some medicines for cancer and chemotherapy are cardio-toxic and can lead to cardiomyopathy,” where the heart muscle becomes enlarged or rigid, says Dr. Eubany. This can lead to heart failure, heart attack, swelling of the heart, and abnormal heart beat. Radiation can also cause blockages in your blood vessels, putting you at risk for heart attack and heart failure too. And problems can show up years after treatment has ended.
Not all cancers, treatments, or medication damage your cardiovascular system, however. If you have cancer or are a cancer survivor, talk to your doctor about the risks of your treatment.
