Why is Volume Depletion Particularly Dangerous for Cancer Patients?
Volume depletion can exacerbate the side effects of cancer treatments and can lead to a vicious cycle of deteriorating health. For instance, dehydration can make it difficult for the kidneys to filter out chemotherapy drugs, increasing their toxicity. Moreover, a reduced blood volume can impair the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, complicating recovery and potentially leading to organ failure. Therefore, managing fluid balance is critical in the care of cancer patients.