Chemotherapy

What is chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a medicine that destroys cancer cells that may be used before surgery to shrink a tumor. It is also used after surgery to eliminate cancer cells that do not appear on imaging scans.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy? 

Side effects may depend on the type of chemo that you are given. Common side effects of chemo include the following:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Hair loss, including loss of eyelashes, eyebrows, and body hair
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
• Poor appetite or changes in taste
• Neuropathy (numbness, tingling, or pain) in your hands or feet that may go away between doses or worsens as treatment continues
• Problems with memory or concentration
• Dry skin, changes in skin color, or easy bruising
• Weight loss or gain