Research has shown that more than 50% of cancer patients receiving chemotherapy have some side effects, ranging from nausea,tiredness and hair loss, to concern about family members, depression and dread of treatment. Different drugs affect individual women differently. It’s possible that you may experience fewer or more side effects with a particular drug, than another woman on the same drug. It’s possible to have chemotherapy with very few side effects. If this happens to you, it means that you’re fortunate – it does not mean that the chemotherapy isn’t working. If you experience side effects, even if you don’t think they’re serious, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor.
Most side effects of chemotherapy can be managed with medical care.
Before you choose treatment, ask your doctor to tell you which side effects are common with the particular drugs you’re being offered. After starting chemotherapy, tell your doctor about any side effects you get from the treatment, so they can be managed. Ask your doctor for an out-of-hours contact number, so you can get help if you develop any serious side effects. Possible side effects of chemotherapy drugs are listed below:
Common side effects of chemotherapy
These side effects are more common than others, but you are unlikely to develop many or all of them:
- nausea and vomiting
- fatigue
- hair loss
- diarrhoea
- constipation
- weight gain
- weight loss
- depression
- anxiety
- menopausal symptoms (temporary or permanent)
- sexual difficulties
- mouth ulcers
- skin problems
Less common side effects of chemotherapy
- feeling vague
- nerve and muscle problems (with taxane drugs only)
Rare side effects of chemotherapy
Although rare, these side effects can be serious, and you need to see a doctor as soon as possible if you develop one of these:
- infection due to a low level of white blood cells
- bleeding or bruising
- kidney or bladder problems
- heart problems (with anthracycline drugs only)
- bone marrow problems
- allergic reactions
- Keeping a diary with details of side effects (such as what they are, when they happen, how long they last for) might help you to discuss them with your doctor.
- Tell your doctor if you have any side effects from chemotherapy.
- Treatment can be given to improve your symptoms, or your chemotherapy can be adjusted if necessary.
