Understanding Chemotherapy: A Guide for Patients and Families
TOPICS
- Understanding Chemotherapy: A Guide for Patients and Families
- Learning about chemotherapy treatment
- A checklist of questions to ask your doctor or nurse
- Should I get a second opinion?
- Where will I get chemo?
- How will the chemo be given to me?
- What are clinical trials?
- Can I take other medicines while I am getting chemo?
- How will I know if the chemo is working?
- How do I give my permission for this treatment?
- Chemo safety
- Will I be able to work during treatment?
- Chemo side effects
- What are common side effects?
- Anemia
- Fatigue
- Hair loss
- Increased chance of bruising, bleeding, and infection
- Nausea and vomiting
- Other chemo side effects and tips to manage them
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Mouth, gum, and throat problems
- Nerve and muscle problems
- Skin and nail changes
- Urine changes and bladder and kidney problems
- Weight gain
- Other questions you may have
- When to call your doctor
- Sex, fertility, and chemo
- Thoughts, emotions, and chemo
- Paying for chemo treatment
- Glossary
- More information from your American Cancer Society
When to call your doctor
At this time, you are probably more in tune with your body than you’ve ever been in your life. You notice every physical change and imbalance. Do not take any physical symptoms you may have lightly.
Some side effects are fleeting and minor, but others may be a sign of serious problems. You should not be the judge. Tell your doctor right away if you suffer from any of the following symptoms during your chemo treatment:
- A fever of 100.5°F or greater
- Bleeding or unexplained bruising
- A rash or allergic reaction, such as swelling of the mouth or throat, severe itching, trouble breathing or swallowing
- Intense chills
- Pain or soreness at the chemo injection site or catheter site
- Unusual pain, including intense headaches
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Long-lasting diarrhea or vomiting
- Bloody stool or blood in your urine
Last Medical Review: 03/07/2013
Last Revised: 03/07/2013
