Side Effects

Cancer treatments can cause side effects—problems that occur when treatment affects healthy tissues or organs. Side effects vary from person to person, even among those receiving the same treatment. Some people have very few side effects while others have many. The type of treatment(s) you receive, as well as the amount or frequency of the treatment, your age, and other health conditions you have may also factor into the side effects you may have.

Before you start treatment, ask your health care team what side effects you are likely to have. Learn about steps you can take, as well as supportive care that you will receive, to lessen side effects during and after treatment. Speak up about any side effects you have and changes you notice, so your health care team can treat or help you manage them.

Common side effects caused by cancer treatment include:

• Anemia
• Appetite Loss
• Bleeding and Bruising (Thrombocytopenia)
• Constipation
• Delirium
• Diarrhea
• Edema
• Fatigue
• Hair Loss (Alopecia)
• Infection and Neutropenia
• Lymphedema
• Memory or Concentration Problems
• Mouth and Throat Problems
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Nerve Problems (Peripheral Neuropathy)
• Pain
• Sexual and Fertility Problems (Men)
• Sexual and Fertility Problems (Women)
• Skin and Nail Changes
• Sleep Problems
• Urinary and Bladder Problems