Chemo and cancer treatment side effects
Side effects are the #1 topic people search for about chemo. In a 2024 study of chemo search terms, 32.2% were about side effects, and hair loss led the list. Pick a side effect to see what helps and when to call.
Hair loss from chemoNausea and vomitingFatigue (extreme tiredness)Neuropathy (numbness and tingling)Mouth sores (mucositis)DiarrheaConstipationLow blood counts and infection risk (neutropenia)Skin rash and skin changesAppetite and taste changesChemo brain (brain fog)Anxiety and distress
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Call your care team now if you have:
- Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills (possible infection when blood counts are low)
- Vomiting or diarrhea that won't stop, or you can't keep fluids down
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
- Signs of an allergic reaction during or after an infusion: trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, hives
Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of stroke.
Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write
Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.