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Real members of MyLeukemiaTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Is It Ok To Receive Chemo For Leukemia When You Have Congestive Heart Failure.

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Youngstown, OH

My 80 year old husband has Leukemia that came from his Lymphoma treatment….needs two more rounds of treatment for his lymphoma. How safe is it. Can it hurt his heart?

August 9, 2022
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A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

You are absolutely right Terry. Don't assume that either of them understand what the other is doing. You don't need to become an expert, but make sure they work together.

April 4, 2023
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Stay on top of the heart problems, they need To be very aware what both camps are doing.

April 2, 2023
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

These are called co-morbidities. I was diagnosed with heart failure and heart disease a few weeks before I was diagnosed with CLL. Had an ICD put in my chest and hooked up to my heart. Two years later I began taking Imbruvica for my CLL. Three years later my heart ejection fraction went way down so I asked to be taken off of the Imbruvica, and I was. My CLL blood numbers were good then, but are slowly getting worse to the point where I think I am going to have to go back on CLL chemo meds of some sort in the next few months. You need to know what to watch for on your leukemia and heart symptoms, and let your doctors know what you think. Take control.

December 8, 2022
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

Receiving chemotherapy for leukemia when you have congestive heart failure can be complex and requires careful consideration. Here are some key points from the knowledge base:

- Anthracyclines and Heart Failure: Anthracycline drugs, often used to treat acute leukemias (ALL or AML), can damage heart cells and may lead to Show Full Answer

Receiving chemotherapy for leukemia when you have congestive heart failure can be complex and requires careful consideration. Here are some key points from the knowledge base:

- Anthracyclines and Heart Failure: Anthracycline drugs, often used to treat acute leukemias (ALL or AML), can damage heart cells and may lead to heart failure. This risk is higher with higher doses and in adults over 65.

- Managing Heart Problems: If heart failure develops, it is treated similarly to heart failure from other causes, using medications like ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, and loop diuretics. Lifestyle changes can also help.

- Adjusting Treatment: People with heart-related side effects from leukemia treatments may need to switch to different chemotherapy drugs or adjust dosages. For example, those with CLL who develop heart problems from ibrutinib might take a lower dose or switch to another TKI.

- Collaborative Care: It is beneficial to see both a hematologist-oncologist and a cardiologist. They can work together to create a treatment plan that manages both leukemia and heart conditions effectively.

- Risks and Benefits: Weighing the risks and benefits of different cancer therapies with your healthcare team is crucial to finding the best solution for your specific situation.

Always consult with your healthcare team to determine the best course of action for your individual health needs.

July 29, 2024

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