Early (onset days to weeks)
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Infection risk (neutropenia)
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- This treatment lowers the amount of white blood cells in your body. The type of white blood cells that help to fight infection are called neutrophils. Having low level of neutrophils is called neutropenia. If you have neutropenia, you are at greater risk of getting an infection. It also means that your body can’t fight infections as well as usual. This is a serious side effect, and can be life threatening.
- Wash your hands often.
- Keep a thermometer at home and take your temperature regularly, and if you feel unwell.
- Do your mouth care regularly.
- Inspect your central line site (if you have one) daily for any redness, pus or swelling.
- Limit contact with people who are sick.
- Learn how to recognise the signs of infection.
- Ask your doctor or nurse for eviQ patient information - Infection during cancer treatment.
- Tell your doctor or nurse immediately, or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department if you get any of the following signs or symptoms:
- a temperature of 38°C or higher
- chills, shivers, sweats or shakes
- a sore throat or cough
- uncontrolled diarrhoea
- shortness of breath
- a fast heartbeat
- become unwell even without a temperature.
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Diarrhoea
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- You may get bowel motions (stools, poo) that are more frequent or more liquid.
- You may also get bloating, cramping or pain.
- Take your antidiarrhoeal medication as directed by your doctor.
- Drink plenty of fluids (unless you are fluid restricted).
- Eat and drink small amounts more often.
- Avoid spicy foods, dairy products, high fibre foods, and coffee.
- Ask your doctor or nurse for eviQ patient information - Diarrhoea during cancer treatment.
- Tell your doctor or nurse immediately, or go to your nearest hospital Emergency Department if your diarrhoea is not controlled, you have 4 or more loose bowel motions per day, and if you feel dizzy or light-headed.
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Constipation
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- You may have bowel motions (stools, poo) that are less frequent, harder, smaller, painful or difficult to pass.
- You may also get:
- bloating, cramping or pain
- a loss of appetite
- nausea or vomiting.
- Drink plenty of fluids (unless you are fluid restricted).
- Eat plenty of fibre-containing foods such as fruit, vegetables and bran.
- Take laxatives as directed by your doctor.
- Try some gentle exercise daily.
- Tell your doctor or nurse if you have not opened your bowels for more than 3 days.
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Extra fluid in the body (fluid retention)
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- You may gain weight over a short amount of time.
- Your hands and feet may become swollen, appear red or feel hot and uncomfortable.
- Wear loose clothing and shoes that are not too tight.
- Try not to stand up or walk around too much at one time.
- If your ankles or legs get swollen, try raising them.
- Make sure that any cuts or areas of broken skin are treated as soon as possible.
- Tell your doctor or nurse as soon as possible if you get any of the symptoms listed above or gain 1 to 2 kg in a week.
- Tell your doctor or nurse immediately or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department if you become short of breath.
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Tiredness and lack of energy (fatigue)
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- You may feel very tired, have no energy, sleep a lot, and not be able to do normal activities or things you enjoy.
- Do not drive or operate machinery if you are feeling tired.
- Nap for short periods (only 1 hour at a time)
- Prioritise your tasks to ensure the best use of your energy.
- Eat a well balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids (unless you are fluid restricted).
- Try some gentle exercise daily.
- Allow your friends and family to help.
- Tell your doctor or nurse if you get any of the symptoms listed above.
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Liver problems
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- You may get:
- yellowing of your skin or eyes
- itchy skin
- pain or tenderness in your stomach
- nausea and vomiting
- loss of appetite
- You will have regular blood tests to check how well your liver is working.
- Tell your doctor or nurse as soon as possible if you notice that your urine is a dark colour, the whites of your eyes look yellow, or if you have stomach pain.
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Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
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- You may get:
- a slow heart rate
- dizziness
- shortness of breath
- fainting.
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of heart problems or high blood pressure.
- Before or during treatment, you may be asked to have a test to see how well your heart is working.
- Tell your doctor or nurse immediately, or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department if you get any of the symptoms listed above.
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Heart changes
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- You may get chest pain, shortness of breath, an abnormal heartbeat or swelling in your arms or legs.
- Before, during or after treatment you may be asked to have tests to see how well your heart is working.
- You will also have other blood tests to check your electrolyte levels.
- Tell your doctor or nurse immediately, or go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department, if you get any of the symptoms listed above.
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Eye problems
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- You may get:
- blurred vision
- changes in your eyesight
- flashes of light
- floating spots.
- These may be especially noticeable when you move from a light area to a dark area.
- If you notice any of these symptoms, do not drive or operate machinery.
- Tell your doctor or nurse if you get any of these symptoms.
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