10 Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

In 2023, there were nearly two million new cancer cases in the U.S., according to the American Cancer Society, and that number is expected to go above two million in 2024. However, due to “big wins” in smoking cessation, early cancer detection, and advances in cancer treatments, the risk of dying from cancer is steadily declining.

Unfortunately, many cancer treatments cause side effects. Every treatment presents different side effects; people can experience different side effects (even those receiving the same treatment). Some side effects occur during treatment and improve over time, but some side effects last for months or years after treatment.

Fortunately, some cancer treatment side effects can be managed by lowering the dose, changing treatment, medication, etc. Many cancer treatment side effects can affect your quality of life, so knowing what might be coming and how to deal with it can help.

10 Common Side Effects of Cancer Treatment

1. Pain
   Pain can significantly impact your quality of life, making it difficult to sleep, eat, or socialize. Pain can often be managed with pain medication and other therapies, such as physical therapy, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
   
   
2. Fatigue
   Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion and weakness that doesn’t go away with sleep. It is common with many cancer treatments, especially chemotherapy.
   
   
3. Nausea and Vomiting
   Radiation therapy to the abdomen, immunotherapy, and chemotherapy sometimes cause nausea and vomiting, which can cause weight loss, dehydration, and malnutrition. Anti-nausea medication can often help.
   
   
4. Brain Fog (Aka chemo brain)
   Certain cancer medications can cause some people to have trouble concentrating or remembering things, making it difficult to do their jobs or perform everyday tasks. Getting plenty of sleep and physical activity may help.
   
   
5. Hair Loss
   Some types of chemotherapy can cause hair loss (Aka alopecia). The hair typically grows back a few months after treatment ends.
   
   
6. Skin and Nail Problems
   Sometimes, the skin on the part of the body where you are receiving radiation therapy can become dry and peel, itch, or turn red. Some types of chemotherapy can have the same effect, along with a rash or quickly being sunburnt. Other skin and nail problems cancer treatments may cause include acne, painful sores, blisters, cracked nails, and yellow nails.
   
   
7. Bleeding and Bruising (Aka Thrombocytopenia)
   Some cancer treatments lower the number of platelets in the blood, which can cause bruising or bleeding a lot or very easily.
   
   
8. Constipation or Diarrhea
   Sometimes, cancer treatments can cause constipation (infrequent bowel movements and hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass), which can lead to bloating, stomach cramps, etc. Eating high-fiber foods, drinking plenty of liquids, being active, and taking medications prescribed by your doctor can help treat constipation.
   
   Other people experience diarrhea (soft, loose, watery, or more frequent bowel movements) with some cancer treatments, which can cause dehydration, low levels of salt and potassium, or malnourishment. Eating small meals that are easy on your stomach, drinking plenty of fluids, and doctor-prescribed medication may help.
   
   
9. Anemia
   Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and some immunotherapies can cause anemia, which occurs when there are insufficient red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body. Anemia can cause dizziness, weakness, racing heart, and faintness. Sometimes, medication or a blood transfusion can help manage anemia.
   
   
10. Lymphedema
    Lymphedema is swelling caused by the build-up of lymph fluid in the body, usually in the arms and legs. It can increase the risk of an infection. Lymphedema can often be treated with a compression sleeve or stocking, massage therapy, exercise, and more.

Always tell your doctor about any side effects you experience after treatment and ask if there is any way to alleviate them.

Helping You Fight Cancer on Your Home Turf

Cancer treatments can be physically and mentally draining, and most people feel more relaxed in the comfort of their own homes. Sometimes, a little help, even for just a few weeks, is enough to give patients and their families the peace of mind they need. Comforting Home Care by Phoebe can help!

If you or a loved one is going through cancer treatment, give us a call today at 610-625-5206 or connect with us online.