Your Guide to Undergoing Chemotherapy
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Chemotherapy is one of the most common and effective treatments for treating cancer, but beginning it often comes with many questions. This post breaks down how chemotherapy works, what patients typically experience, and practical ways to stay as comfortable and supported as possible throughout treatment.
What Is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy uses medications—usually given intravenously—that travel throughout the body to kill cancer cells, including those that may have moved beyond the original tumor. Treatment plans vary widely depending on the type and stage of cancer. Chemotherapy is given in cycles, sometimes once a week, sometimes multiple times a week, usually a two, three, or four-week cycle. These cycles include built-in rest periods that allow the body to recover, making them just as important as the treatment itself.
What Are the Side Effects of Chemotherapy?
While chemotherapy is an essential part of many cancer care plans, it can also have side effects. Understanding what to expect—and how to manage these changes—can help patients feel more prepared and supported.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a very common side effect of chemotherapy. Many people describe it as a deep tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest. It may show up a day after treatment or a few days later. Pacing daily activities and listening to the body’s cues can be helpful. Light movement, such as short walks, may also improve energy levels for some patients.
Increased Risk of Infection
Because chemotherapy affects rapidly dividing cells, it can lower white blood cell counts. These cells are the body’s defense against infection, so patients may be more vulnerable during treatment. The patient’s blood is checked before each infusion to make sure counts are high enough to safely continue. When needed, doses may be adjusted, treatment may be delayed, or medications may be added to help boost white blood cells.
Bleeding and Bruising
Chemotherapy can also reduce platelets, which help the body stop bleeding. Care teams closely monitor blood work to watch for low platelet counts. Patients are encouraged to report new bruising, bleeding gums, or other unusual symptoms so they can be addressed promptly.
Nausea, Vomiting, and Diarrhea
Nausea and vomiting used to be among the most difficult side effects of chemotherapy, but modern medications make these symptoms much easier to control. Anti-nausea medicines are often given before the treatment begins and prescribed for use at home. If symptoms persist, additional medications can usually help.
Diarrhea can also occur, depending on the type of chemotherapy. Staying hydrated is essential, and it’s important to notify the care team so they can check for dehydration, rule out infections, and recommend appropriate anti-diarrheal medications.
Hair Loss
Many—but not all—chemotherapy drugs can cause temporary hair loss. This can be emotionally challenging, and it varies depending on the treatment. Hair usually begins to grow back after chemotherapy ends. Supportive resources such as wig programs, head coverings, and support groups are often available to help patients navigate this part of treatment. For example, the Reflections Boutique at the Leever Cancer Center offers free wigs and head coverings.
Coping Tips for Chemotherapy
When you are undergoing chemotherapy, one of the most important ways to cope is by having a strong support system. Social workers, nutritionists, support groups, and online communities can all provide guidance, encouragement, and practical tips. Many patients find valuable day-to-day advice from others who have gone through similar experiences.
While chemotherapy affects everyone differently, many patients find that small, consistent habits can make a meaningful difference in how they feel throughout treatment. Common suggestions include:
- Exercise as your energy levels permit: Light, regular movement can be one of the most effective ways to combat treatment-related fatigue. Research shows that exercise during chemotherapy can improve energy levels, sleep quality, and mood. This doesn’t mean pushing yourself hard—short walks, stretching, or gentle strength exercises can be enough. The key is to plan your activity around your energy levels and take breaks when your body tells you to.
- Stay well hydrated: Drinking enough fluids supports your body’s ability to process treatment and recover between cycles. Hydration can also help reduce headaches, dizziness, and some digestive symptoms. Keeping water or an electrolyte drink nearby throughout the day can make it easier to stay on track.
- Focus on nutrition: Chemotherapy can affect appetite and digestion, so small, frequent meals are often easier to tolerate than large ones. Balancing protein, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables can help maintain strength and support healing. Some patients find that plant-focused diets or intermittent fasting help reduce inflammation and improve how they feel during treatment. If certain foods suddenly taste different or become unappealing, experimenting with new flavors and textures can help you maintain good nutrition.
- Keep a symptom or wellness journal: Writing down how you feel each day can help you spot patterns—such as when fatigue peaks or which foods sit well—and gives your care team a clearer picture of how treatment is affecting you. A simple notebook or phone app is enough. Many patients find that journaling also offers emotional support by helping them process what they’re experiencing.
For more information, see the Preparing for Chemotherapy page or the Navigating Chemotherapy Podcast on the Leever website.