Adjuvant chemotherapy is treatment for cancer that is given in addition to primary treatment, usually surgery. Many kinds of chemotherapeutic drugs abound, and side effects vary according to the type of drug, the dosage, the combination of drugs used and the dosing schedule. Some people experience many side effects, while others experience little or no side effects. Reviewing any possible side effects prior to starting chemotherapy treatment may help you anticipate any problems and find ways to deal with any discomfort or difficulties.
General Side Effects
Although some side effects vary depending on the drugs given, many side effects are common to numerous chemotherapy drugs. These side effects can include nausea and vomiting, hair loss, fatigue, easy bruising, appetite and weight changes, intestinal difficulties, mouth sores, and lowered white and red blood cell counts, which can lead to anemia and higher risk of infection.
Neurological Side Effects
Peripheral neuropathy and "chemo brain" are two neurological side effects that may occur as a result of chemotherapy. Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that occurs in the nerves in the arms and legs. Symptoms can include pain and burning, a feeling of "pins and needles" in the feet and hands, numbness, increased temperature sensitivity and balance problems. "Chemo brain" is the term that many patients use to describe the mental cloudiness they experience during and after chemotherapy, according to the American Cancer Society. Symptoms of chemo brain include difficulty multitasking, concentration problems, slower processing and thinking, and memory lapses. For many people, these effects are temporary, but in others, the symptoms are longer-lasting.
Sexual and Fertility Side Effects
Chemotherapy may have side effects on sexual functioning and fertility in both men and women. For men, chemotherapy may affect sperm motility or lower the sperm count, according to the American Cancer Society. Some chemotherapy drugs may cause temporary or permanent sterility. Talking to your doctor prior to starting chemotherapy may be beneficial if you want to preserve your fertility by banking sperm. In women, chemotherapy may damage the ovaries, causing menstrual irregularity, menopausal symptoms and even premature menopause. The extent of chemotherapy's effect on fertility depends on the specific drugs given, the dosage and your age. The closer in age to menopause you are, the more likely menopause is to occur.
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