What are the side effects of chemotherapy?
Feeling Sick
Some chemotherapy medicines can make you feel unwell. Tell your care team if this happens, as they can prescribe medicines to help. Try eating smaller snacks more often when you feel up to it, rest after meals, get plenty of fresh air, and avoid strong-smelling or greasy foods. It is also sensible not to eat your favourite meals when you feel sick, so that you can still enjoy them once you feel better.
Feeling Tired
Chemotherapy can leave you feeling exhausted and run down. It can be frustrating, but try to be patient with yourself. Rest whenever you need to, eat nourishing food, and sleep as much as your body requires. Avoid pushing yourself too hard. Light activity such as a short walk can boost your energy and mood. Paying attention to what your body is telling you is one of the best ways to manage tiredness.
Mouth Problems
You may experience mouth ulcers or soreness in your mouth and throat during treatment. Sucking on red ice lollies can help to numb the pain. Avoid yellow or orange ones, as the citric acid can make your mouth worse. Try not to eat crunchy or very hot food, and use a soft children’s toothbrush to make brushing more comfortable.
Bowel Problems
Chemotherapy can affect how your digestive system works, sometimes causing constipation or diarrhoea. This happens because the treatment interferes with the fast-dividing cells that line your gut. Let your care team know if this becomes a problem, as they can recommend suitable medicines or dietary changes to ease the symptoms.
Hair Loss
Even when you expect it, losing your hair can still be upsetting. It can occur with some types of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, although not everyone experiences it. You might like to try shorter hairstyles, wear scarves or hats, or join a support group to talk to others who understand. Many people also find confidence in embracing baldness. Your care team can tell you about organisations that provide wigs free of charge.
Low Blood Counts
Chemotherapy targets cancer cells but can also damage healthy blood cells. This can lower platelets, which increases the risk of bruising or bleeding, and reduce red blood cells, leading to tiredness and shortness of breath. It can also lower your white blood cell count, making you more likely to get infections. Blood transfusions can replace red cells and platelets but not white cells, so taking care to avoid illness is important.
Losing Weight
If treatment affects your appetite or makes it hard to eat, speak to your healthcare team. They can refer you to a dietitian for support. Try eating small, frequent meals, cutting food into smaller pieces, and eating with others to take your mind off it. Keep a sick bag nearby just in case. Foods high in calories such as cheese, milkshakes or ice cream, and protein-rich options like beans, eggs, fish and meat can help you maintain your weight.
Gaining Weight
Some treatments, especially steroids, can cause weight gain. This is usually temporary, so it is important not to skip meals or avoid food to try to control it. Focus on eating healthily, staying hydrated, and keeping active when possible. Wearing clothes that make you feel comfortable and talking about how you feel can also make a difference. Most people find that their weight returns to normal after treatment.
Chemo Brain/Brain Fog
During chemotherapy, you may notice problems with memory, focus or concentration, often called chemo brain. It can make you feel forgetful or confused, but this is usually short-term. Keeping notes, using reminders, and giving yourself time to rest can help. Try to avoid stress and be patient with yourself. Your concentration and memory should improve once treatment is over.
Sex and Chemotherapy
If you are having chemotherapy, or your partner is, it is important to use condoms during sex, including oral sex, even if you are using other contraception. This helps prevent chemotherapy drugs from being passed through bodily fluids and also reduces the risk of infection. Your healthcare team can give you advice on how long to continue using protection after treatment ends.