Chemotherapy can cause wide range of problems. It can cause short term as well as long term side effects. It is difficult to predict exactly what symptoms will an individual experience while on chemotherapy treatment. Since people react differently, it is particularly not so easy to generalize the side effects for the whole population. However, here is a list of the common side effects that many people have reported and it is unlikely that you can experience them all.
Many of the side effects of chemotherapy are distressing and not serious. However, you need to contact your doctor immediately if you do experience the below problems. Chemotherapy can cause a reduction in the number of white blood cells and hence you are likely to develop an
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Fatigue:
This is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Everyone who undergoes chemotherapy experience fatigue. You get tired very easily. Even minor tasks may make you feel exhausted. While having chemotherapy get plenty of rest. Drink lots of fluids and practice walking and yoga to boost your energy levels. However, be cautious; do not push yourself too hard.
Nausea and vomiting:
Almost 50% of the people on chemotherapy experience nausea and vomiting. Your doctor may prescribe an antiemetic (drug to prevent nausea and vomiting) to treat your symptoms. Even if you do not feel sick, continue your drug as it will prevent the symptoms from returning. The side effects of antiemetics include,
Constipation
Indigestion
Sleeping problems
Headaches
Hair loss:
This is one of the most disturbing side effects. It is traumatic for women especially. It begins after one or three weeks after the first dose and people have significant hair loss after one or two months. The scalp is the most common affected area although other parts of the body like arms, legs and face might also be affected. This is temporary and hair loss should stop after withdrawing the chemotherapy treatment. The hair regrown after chemotherapy might differ from the previous hair. For example, it might be of different colour, or different texture, curlier or