What are the side effects of chemotherapy?
While chemotherapy destroys cancer cells, it is the damage to healthy cells that causes many of the common side effects of chemotherapy.
Side effects vary depending on the type of chemotherapy drug used and the individual person.
Most are temporary and can be treated or managed.
Everyone will experience side effects uniquely. It’s important to discuss any side effects you have with your care team so they can help you manage them during your treatment.
Common side effects from chemotherapy
Anaemia
Appetite and taste changes
Bleeding and low platelets (thrombocytopenia)
Constipation
Diarrhoea
Feeling emotional
Flu-like symptoms
Hair loss
Hand foot syndrome
Infection
Infertility
Lymphoedema
Mouth sores or ulcers
Nausea and vomiting
Peripheral neuropathy
Sexual dysfunction
Skin and nail changes
We're here for you
If you have a question about becoming a patient at our centre or accessing our treatment services, we are here to help. We know that navigating a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and can help you understand the process and what steps to take next.




