Managing Cancer-related Side Effects
Find information about common side effects that can be caused by cancer and cancer treatment.
Find a side effect
You can also browse common side effects below. Make sure to talk to your cancer care team about what side effects you should watch for, and let them know about any symptoms or side effects you have, so they can be managed and treated.
When to call your cancer care team
Ask your cancer care team what symptoms you should call them for, and when you should go to the emergency room. Know who to call when the office or clinic is closed.
Each side effect page also includes reasons to call your cancer care team.
Side Effects by Category
Low blood counts can cause infections, fatigue, and problems with clotting.
Cancer and cancer treatment may cause bowel or bladder changes or problems such as diarrhea, constipation, incontinence, or retention.
People going through cancer treatment sometimes have cognitive changes such as trouble remembering, paying attention, or thinking clearly.
Common problems include changes in appetite or weight, or other side effects that make it hard to eat or drink.
Cancer treatment can cause fatigue, weakness, and balance problems. Many people might also have difficulty sleeping, or might be at risk for falling. Learn more about these side effects and how they can be managed.
Sex, sexuality, and fertility can be affected by cancer, surgery, and certain types of treatment.
Cancer and cancer treatment can cause skin changes such as dryness, itchiness, and rash, as well as hair loss and nail changes.
People who have cancer or who are getting cancer treatment often have a higher risk of getting an infection, and infections can be more serious than in people who don't have cancer.
A cancer diagnosis can affect your mental health. It can also affect the mental health of your family and caregivers. Feelings of anxiety, distress, depression, and loneliness are common, both during and after cancer treatment. It's important to recognize these changes and get help if you need it.
Having cancer does not always mean having pain. But if you do have pain, you can work with your health care team to make sure a pain control plan is part of your care.
Cancer and cancer treatment can cause different types of swelling. It may be called edema, ascites, or lymphedema depending on the area affected and what is causing the swelling.
