Paxman™ Cooling Therapy
Reducing The Risk of Hair Loss During Chemotherapy
At HOAF, we strive to offer our patients the latest advancements in oncology to make your healing journey more comfortable. We understand that hair loss during cancer treatments such as chemotherapy may be one of the most difficult side effects for some. That’s why we are happy to offer the Paxman™ Scalp Cooling System to help our cancer patients from losing their hair during chemotherapy. HOAF is here to support our patients every step of the way during your cancer journey and aim to help you keep your hair during treatment.
About Paxman™ Cooling Therapy
We understand side effects from treatment such as chemotherapy can be challenging. Cancer is an emotional journey for our patients, and we recognize certain side effects from chemotherapy such as hair loss can be extremely difficult for some of our patients, as hair can be associated with self-esteem, body image and overall wellness. Plus, some patients may feel they lose their sense of privacy, as hair loss is often a sign of cancer.
With the Paxman™ Scalp Cooling System, we strive to help you keep the part you hold true to yourself. This revolutionary therapy works by cooling your scalp prior to, during and following your chemotherapy session to prevent or reduce hair loss. It is safe, effective and FDA-approved so you can feel confident in your health during treatment.
What Is Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia Or CIA?
According to studies, about 65% of all cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy experience hair loss, also known as alopecia. Why is this? Chemotherapy is a powerful treatment designed to target and eliminate rapidly dividing cancer cells in the body. However, in the process of attacking harmful cells, chemotherapy can also affect certain healthy cells, including hair follicle keratinocytes, which are among the fastest growing cells in the body.
Because of their rapid growth, these cells can be mistakenly identified by chemotherapy drugs as targets, leading to temporary hair loss. This side effect happens as the treatment disrupts the normal growth cycle of hair follicles. Most patients may experience CIA within the first couple of weeks of chemotherapy, but the amount of hair loss depends on the length of your treatment, dosage, frequency and duration.
How It Helps With Chemotherapy-Induced Alopecia
At Hematology Oncology Associates of Fredericksburg, we prioritize patient comfort and utilizes leading-edge treatments with a personalized touch to deliver exceptional services. When you visit us for your chemotherapy session, we will make sure you are comfortable before placing a soft, lightweight silicone cap on your head as part of the Paxman™ Cooling Therapy. It works by lowering the temperature of your scalp before, during and after chemotherapy treatment. As the scalp cools, blood vessels constrict, reducing blood flow to the hair follicles. This limits the amount of chemotherapy drugs that can reach the follicles, helping to protect them from damage.
Additionally, the cooling effect slows down the activity of the hair follicle cells, making them less susceptible to the drug’s effects. By preserving the health of the follicles, this therapy is able to help our patients keep more of their hair throughout treatment.
Getting Started With Paxman™ Cooling Therapy
HOAF is happy to provide our patients with the latest and most advanced treatments in cancer care including the Paxman™ Scalp Cooling System at both of our Fredericksburg offices. Depending on your provider, some insurance plans will cover this therapy. We will have each patient go through an enrollment process to determine if you are eligible and discuss financial assistance options. For more information, ask your HOAF provider at your next appointment or give us a call at (540) 371-0079.
HOAF Means Hope
Where Healing Begins, Strength Prevails
At HOAF, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for cancer and blood disorders to the Fredericksburg, Stafford, and surrounding communities. Our practice integrates advanced treatments with a personalized approach, delivering the highest quality care. As an independent practice, we focus on individualized attention, ensuring each patient receives compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to their unique needs. Our cutting-edge facility, equipped with an on-site pharmacy, offers convenience and a seamless treatment experience.
