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Drinking and Eating Changes

People with cancer might have problems eating food and drinking fluids. Common problems include changes in appetite or weight, or other side effects that make it hard to eat or drink.

Dehydration and Lack of Fluids

Learn about things that can cause dehydration in a person who has cancer and what can be done to treat it.

Hiccups and Heartburn

Learn about things that can cause dehydration in a person who has cancer and what can be done to treat it.

Poor Appetite

A person with a poor appetite or no appetite may eat much less than normal or may not eat at all. A poor appetite can be caused by a changed sense of taste or smell, feeling full, tumor growth, dehydration, or the side effects of treatment. 

Mouth Sores and Pain

Learn about things that can cause dehydration in a person who has cancer and what can be done to treat it.

Mouth Dryness or Thick Saliva

Learn about things that can cause dehydration in a person who has cancer and what can be done to treat it.

Nausea and Vomiting

Learn about things that can cause dehydration in a person who has cancer and what can be done to treat it.

Swallowing Problems

A person may gag, cough, spit, feel pain, or have other problems when trying to swallow. There can be a number of causes. It may be a short-term side effect of chemo or radiation treatment to the throat or chest. It may also be caused by an infection of the mouth or esophagus, as well as other problems.

Taste and Smell Changes

Cancer and its treatments can change your senses of taste and smell. These changes can affect your appetite and are often described as a bitter or metallic taste. Food can also taste too salty or sweet. 

Weight Changes

Weight changes during cancer treatment are common. Some side effects might lead to weight loss, while others might cause a person with cancer to gain weight.