Chemotherapy Cancer Treatment in Grand Rapids, MI

Chemotherapy is a common and effective cancer treatment used at major Grand Rapids hospitals, including Spectrum Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, and Mercy Health. It uses powerful medications to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth, and is often part of a comprehensive cancer care plan tailored to each patient.

In Grand Rapids, chemotherapy is usually provided through hospital-based cancer centers or outpatient infusion clinics, often in coordination with local resources like the Kent County Health Department and Grand Rapids Public Health.

What Is Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy (sometimes called “cytotoxic” or “anti-cancer” medication) uses drugs that target fast-growing cells. Because cancer cells grow and divide quickly, chemotherapy can:

  • Destroy cancer cells
  • Slow or stop cancer growth
  • Shrink tumors before surgery or radiation
  • Help prevent cancer from returning

However, some healthy cells in the body also grow quickly, such as:

  • Hair follicle cells
  • Cells in the mouth and digestive tract
  • Cells in the bone marrow that make blood cells

When these healthy cells are affected, side effects such as hair loss, mouth sores, or low blood counts may occur.

How Chemotherapy Is Used in Cancer Treatment

Your cancer care team in Grand Rapids will recommend chemotherapy based on:

  • The type of cancer
  • Where the cancer is in your body
  • The stage of the cancer
  • Your age, general health, and other medical conditions

Chemotherapy may be used:

  • As the only treatment – for certain cancers where chemotherapy alone is effective
  • Before surgery (neoadjuvant) – to shrink a tumor and make surgery easier
  • After surgery (adjuvant) – to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of cancer coming back
  • With radiation therapy – to make radiation more effective
  • To control symptoms – when cure is not possible, chemotherapy can help relieve pain or pressure from tumors and improve quality of life

The main goals of chemotherapy are to:

  • Cure the cancer or increase the chance of cure
  • Slow or control cancer growth
  • Reduce symptoms and improve quality of life

Where Chemotherapy Is Given in Grand Rapids

In West Michigan, most people receive chemotherapy as outpatients, meaning you go to a cancer center or infusion clinic for treatment and go home the same day. This is common at:

  • Spectrum Health Cancer Center locations in Grand Rapids
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids oncology clinics
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health cancer services
  • Mercy Health oncology and infusion centers

In some cases, you may need inpatient chemotherapy, which involves staying overnight in the hospital. This may be recommended if:

  • You need very intensive treatment
  • You have other serious medical conditions
  • You are at higher risk of complications

Your oncologist will explain which setting is safest and most convenient for you.

How Chemotherapy Is Given

Chemotherapy can be delivered in different ways. Your doctor will choose the method that best fits your cancer type and treatment plan.

Oral Chemotherapy (Tablets or Capsules)

Some chemotherapy drugs are taken by mouth at home:

  • You swallow tablets or capsules on a set schedule
  • You must follow instructions exactly (with or without food, time of day, etc.)
  • Your cancer team will monitor you with regular blood tests and checkups in Grand Rapids clinics

Intravenous (IV) Chemotherapy

Most chemotherapy in Grand Rapids is given intravenously, meaning directly into a vein. This is usually done in an infusion center.

Common methods include:

1. Cannula (Peripheral IV)

  • A small, thin plastic tube (about 1.5 cm long) is placed into a vein in your hand or arm
  • Chemotherapy is given through an IV drip attached to the cannula
  • You may feel a cool sensation as the medication enters your vein
  • The cannula is removed at the end of your treatment session

2. Central Line, PICC Line, or Port

If you need longer-term treatment or if your veins are hard to access, your team may recommend a central line, PICC line, or port (sometimes known as a Hickman line):

  • Inserted into a large vein, often near the chest
  • Can stay in place for weeks or months
  • Used to give chemotherapy, other medications, and to draw blood
  • Placed under local or general anesthesia, often in the radiology department or operating room

A central line may be recommended if:

  • You need chemotherapy over a long period
  • You need continuous chemotherapy (for example, 24 hours a day using a small portable pump)
  • The chemotherapy drugs could damage small veins
  • It is difficult to place a standard IV in your arm

The central line is removed once your chemotherapy treatment is completed.

Other Less Common Methods

In some specialized cases, chemotherapy may be given:

  • Under the skin (subcutaneous)
  • Into an artery
  • Into the spinal fluid (intrathecal)
  • Into the chest cavity (intrapleural)
  • Into the abdominal cavity (intraperitoneal)

These methods are less common and are usually done in hospital settings with experienced oncology teams, such as those at Spectrum Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

What Chemotherapy Feels Like

Having chemotherapy should not be painful. You may notice:

  • A cool feeling in your arm or chest as IV chemotherapy enters your bloodstream
  • Mild discomfort when the IV or central line is placed

Tell your nurse immediately if you feel:

  • Burning, stinging, or pain at the IV site
  • Swelling or redness around the IV or port

Your chemotherapy nurses in Grand Rapids are trained to respond quickly to any problems with IV lines.

Chemotherapy and Other Medications

During chemotherapy, your doctor may ask you to avoid:

  • Certain prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers or cold medicines
  • Vitamins, herbal supplements, or “natural” remedies

Some products can:

  • Reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy
  • Increase the risk of side effects
  • Interact with your cancer drugs in dangerous ways

Always:

  • Tell your oncologist and pharmacist in Grand Rapids about all medications and supplements you take
  • Check before starting anything new, including herbal products or vitamins

Side Effects of Chemotherapy

Not everyone experiences the same side effects. They depend on:

  • The type of chemotherapy drugs
  • The dose and schedule
  • Your overall health and how your body responds

Side effects can be mild or more severe. In Michigan, seasonal factors like winter viruses and flu can also affect how you feel during treatment, so your team may recommend vaccines or extra precautions during cold and flu season.

Common Chemotherapy Side Effects

  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Bowel changes (diarrhea or constipation)
  • Hair loss (alopecia)
  • Increased risk of infection
  • Low red blood cells (anemia – can cause tiredness and shortness of breath)
  • Low white blood cells (higher risk of infections)
  • Low platelets (bruising or bleeding more easily)
  • Mouth ulcers or mouth infections
  • Skin problems such as dryness, itchiness, or sensitivity to sunlight

In Grand Rapids, with its mix of sunny summers and snowy winters, your skin may be more sensitive to both sun and cold during chemotherapy. Protecting your skin year-round is important.

Not Everyone Has Side Effects

Some people have very few side effects. Others may have more noticeable ones. Most side effects:

  • Are temporary
  • Improve gradually after chemotherapy ends
  • Can be managed with medications and lifestyle strategies

Always discuss side effects with your oncologist or chemotherapy nurses. Many problems can be prevented or treated early.

Coping With Chemotherapy Side Effects

Your Grand Rapids cancer care team will give you specific advice, but the following strategies are often helpful.

Managing Fatigue

  • Exercise gently when you can – short walks indoors (for example, in a mall or around your home) or light stretching
  • In winter, consider indoor walking at places like the Downtown Market, local malls, or community centers to avoid icy sidewalks
  • Plan activities for times when you feel most energetic, often in the morning
  • Take afternoon naps if needed, but keep them short so you can still sleep at night

Eating Well During Chemotherapy

  • Drink plenty of water, unless your doctor gives you other instructions
  • Eat a balanced diet with:
    • Fresh fruits and vegetables
    • Lean meats, fish, or plant-based proteins
    • Wholegrain breads and cereals
  • Avoid high-fat, very spicy, or rich foods if they upset your stomach
  • Eat when you feel hungry – you may need to:
    • Have smaller meals more often
    • Make your main meal earlier in the day
    • Snack on light, easy-to-digest foods

If you are struggling with appetite or weight loss, ask for a referral to a dietitian through your Grand Rapids cancer center.

Caring for Your Hair and Scalp

Because chemotherapy targets fast-growing cells, it can cause partial or complete hair loss on your scalp and sometimes other body hair.

To protect your hair and scalp:

  • Treat your hair gently
  • Use mild shampoos
  • Avoid:
    • Hair dyes
    • Perms
    • Hot rollers or curling irons
    • Gels and sprays
  • Try soft pillowcases (satin, cotton, or polyester) for comfort
  • Use wigs, scarves, hats, or turbans to protect your scalp from cold Michigan winters and strong summer sun

Many Grand Rapids cancer centers can help connect you with local wig programs or support groups.

Protecting Yourself From Infection

Chemotherapy can lower your white blood cell count, making it harder to fight infections. This is especially important during Michigan’s cold and flu season.

To reduce your risk:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are clearly sick (colds, flu, COVID-19), but you do not need to avoid all people or all public places
  • Wash your hands with soap and water:
    • After using the bathroom
    • Before preparing food
    • Before eating
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when you’re out in the community
  • Be careful with sharp objects:
    • Wear gloves when gardening or doing yard work
    • Consider using an electric shaver instead of razor blades

Ask your doctor about vaccines (such as flu and COVID-19) and the best timing around your chemotherapy cycles.

Mouth Care During Chemotherapy

Good oral hygiene can help prevent mouth sores and infections:

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft toothbrush
  • Rinse your mouth with salt water at least four times a day
  • Use any prescribed mouthwash exactly as directed
  • Avoid over-the-counter mouthwashes unless your doctor says they are safe
  • If you have mouth sores or infection:
    • Avoid hard, crunchy, or spicy foods
    • Choose soft foods like soups, stews, yogurt, smoothies, or ice cream

If you see a dentist in Grand Rapids, let them know you are on chemotherapy before any dental work.

Protecting Your Skin

Chemotherapy can make your skin more sensitive:

  • Avoid strong sun exposure
  • When outside:
    • Wear a broad-brimmed hat
    • Use long sleeves and protective clothing
    • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to exposed skin, even in winter when sun reflects off snow
  • Use moisturizing lotions (such as sorbolene or other gentle, fragrance-free creams) to reduce dryness and itchiness

Medications, Supplements, and “Natural” Products

To stay safe:

  • Avoid starting over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, or supplements unless your oncologist approves them
  • Some products can:
    • Interfere with how chemotherapy works
    • Increase side effects
    • Affect your liver or kidneys while they are processing cancer drugs

Always check with your cancer doctor or pharmacist in Grand Rapids before using any new product.

Emotional Health, Anxiety, and Depression

Cancer treatment can be emotionally challenging. Many people in West Michigan find it helpful to:

  • Talk openly with family and friends
  • Join a local support group through area hospitals or community organizations
  • Ask for a referral to a counselor, psychologist, or social worker who specializes in cancer care

Seek help if you:

  • Feel persistently sad, hopeless, or very anxious
  • Lose interest in activities you used to enjoy
  • Have trouble sleeping or eating because of worry

Your oncologist can connect you with mental health resources in Grand Rapids.

Regular Tests During Chemotherapy

To keep you safe, your cancer team will monitor you closely:

  • Blood tests – to check:
    • White blood cells (infection risk)
    • Red blood cells (anemia)
    • Platelets (bleeding risk)
    • Kidney and liver function
  • Imaging tests (such as CT scans or MRIs) – to see how well the chemotherapy is working

These tests are usually done at hospital labs or imaging centers in Grand Rapids. Your treatment plan may be adjusted based on your results.

When to Call Your Doctor or Go to the Emergency Department

Contact your oncologist or chemotherapy center immediately if you have:

  • Fever higher than 38°C (100.4°F)
  • Chills or sweats
  • Feeling suddenly unwell in any way
  • Abnormal bruising or bleeding
  • Continuous vomiting (unable to keep fluids down)
  • Severe diarrhea or constipation
  • New or worsening abdominal pain
  • Shortness of breath, chest pain, or confusion

If you cannot reach your doctor or treatment center:

  • Go to the nearest emergency department (for example, Spectrum Health Butterworth Hospital or Trinity Health Grand Rapids)
  • Tell the staff immediately that you are receiving chemotherapy

Prompt treatment of infections and complications is especially important during cold Michigan winters when respiratory illnesses are more common.

Local and Regional Support Resources (Michigan)

In addition to your oncology team, you may find support through:

  • Your GP (primary care doctor) – for general health issues and coordination of care
  • Kent County Health Department & Grand Rapids Public Health – for vaccines, infection prevention, and community health resources
  • Local hospital-based survivorship programs – many Grand Rapids cancer centers offer survivorship clinics to help you plan life after treatment

Ask your oncology nurse or social worker for a list of current local support groups, counseling services, and financial or transportation resources in the Grand Rapids area.

Key Points About Chemotherapy in Grand Rapids

  • Chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy or control cancer and is widely available at major Grand Rapids cancer centers.
  • It can be given alone or combined with surgery, radiation, or other treatments.
  • Most chemotherapy is given by IV through a cannula or central line; oral chemotherapy is also common.
  • A central line is removed once your chemotherapy treatment is completed.
  • Your doctor may advise you to avoid certain medications, supplements, or herbal products during treatment.
  • Some products can reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapy or increase side effects.
  • Side effects vary from person to person, but most are temporary and manageable.
  • It is important to discuss any side effects with your doctor or chemotherapy nurses so they can help you prevent or manage them.
  • Regular blood tests and scans are used to ensure chemotherapy is safe and effective.

If you live in the Grand Rapids, MI area and are starting chemotherapy, your oncology team will work closely with you to create a personalized, safe, and effective treatment plan and connect you with local resources to support you through every step of your cancer journey.