There are a range of side-effects that can occur from treatment with chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy. It’s important to remember that everyone will respond differently to treatment and side-effects vary greatly. You may experience mild side-effects, or more severe side-effects, or you may not experience any.
Symptoms requiring urgent assessment
Please call 000 or present to your nearest emergency department if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- New shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Uncontrolled bleeding, vomiting or diarrhoea (>6 episodes/day)
- Fevers of 38°C
- Persistent headaches
- Sudden changes in your vision or acute pain in the eyes
- Severe or uncontrolled pain
- Excessive thirst
- Yellowing of the eyes, severe abdominal pain and dark urine
- Seizures
- If you feel generally unwell and are concerned about your wellbeing
Chemotherapy
Below are a list of common side-effects from chemotherapy that you may experience. Please be aware that not everyone will experience some or all of these side-effects.
- Fevers/infection
- Changes in blood count levels
- Nausea and vomiting
- Mouth ulcers
- Bowel changes, including diarrhea and constipation
- Bleeding and bruising
- Fatigue
- Changes in taste and appetite
- Skin changes, including skin dryness and rash
- Nail changes
- Hair loss or thinning
- Sensory nerve damage to the hands and feet
- Tinnitus
- Dry eyes
- Impact on fertility and sexuality
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and are concerned, please phone the Cancer Helpline on 1800 965 222 (Monday – Friday, 8am – 4.30pm).
Immunotherapy
Below are a list of common side-effects from immunotherapy that you may experience. Please be aware that not everyone will experience some or all of these side-effects.
- Skin rash and itch
- Pain in the joints and muscles
- Diarrhoea
- Breathlessness
- Fatigue
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please phone the Cancer Helpline on 1800 965 222 (Monday – Friday, 8am – 4.30pm). The earlier we know about these symptoms, the quicker we can treat them and prevent them from becoming a bigger problem.
Tips for staying well
For more information about general health and managing side-effects please see the nutrition talks videos.
General advice and safety
Recommendations to keep you and your family safe at home.
