Question 1

What does chemotherapy feel like?

Accepted Answer

This varies enormously depending on the drugs used, the doses, and the individual. Some people work through chemotherapy with relatively manageable side effects. Others find it profoundly debilitating. The most common experiences include fatigue (often the most significant), nausea (well controlled with modern anti-emetics), hair loss with certain drug regimens, increased infection risk, and mouth sores. Your oncology team will explain which side effects are most likely with your specific regimen.

Question 2

How long does a chemotherapy session last?

Accepted Answer

This varies widely by regimen: from 30 minutes to several hours per infusion, sometimes over multiple consecutive days. Some chemotherapy is given as tablets taken at home. Your oncologist will explain the schedule for your specific treatment. Most chemotherapy is given in cycles: for example, treatment for 3 days followed by a rest period of 3 weeks, then repeated.

Question 3

Will I lose my hair during chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Hair loss depends on the specific chemotherapy drugs used. Some regimens cause significant hair loss, others cause minimal or none. Your oncologist will tell you whether hair loss is expected with your treatment. If hair loss is expected, it usually begins 2-4 weeks after the first treatment. Hair grows back after chemotherapy ends, though it may initially return with a different texture or colour.

Question 4

Can I eat normally during chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Many people can eat normally between treatment sessions. During and immediately after infusions, nausea may affect appetite. Maintaining nutrition is important: high protein foods support the immune system and help manage treatment-related fatigue. A cancer dietitian can provide personalised guidance. Cold or room-temperature foods are often better tolerated when nausea is present. Avoid raw or undercooked foods when your immune system is suppressed.

Question 5

When should I call my oncology team urgently during chemotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Call your oncology team immediately if you develop: fever above 38°C (possible neutropenic sepsis, a medical emergency), shaking chills, unusual bruising or bleeding, severe vomiting that prevents you keeping fluids down, chest pain or shortness of breath, or any symptom that feels serious or frightening. Your team will have given you an emergency contact number; use it. Do not wait for a routine appointment if you are concerned.

Chemotherapy: What you might notice

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Chemotherapy: What you might notice

🧰 Your recovery toolkit

Your recovery toolkit