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Treatment Side Effects

General Treatment Side Effects

Chemotherapy drugs are very strong. They kill cancer cells but may also damage some normal cells. This can cause temporary problems or side effects that can make your child feel sick. His or her treatment team will do their best to prevent or treat side effects.

In general, there are some common side effects of chemotherapy drugs and radiation to watch for. If your child is having any of these symptoms, tell his or her treatment team because some can be prevented or treated.

Click on one of the below side effects to find out what to expect from that side effect and to read about what you can do to help your child cope with that side effect.

Common side effects during treatment are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of hair
• Skin irritation
• Mouth problems

Also, because chemotherapy drugs can damage the blood-producing cells, your child may have low blood cell counts during treatment. The counts usually return to normal after treatment.

Low blood cell counts can cause:

• Increased chance of infection
• Bleeding or bruising after minor cuts or injuries
• Tiredness or shortness of breath