Common Side Effects & Supportive Care Tips
1. Fatigue (Extreme Tiredness)
Commonly seen during: chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal therapy, post-surgery recovery
What patients often experience
- Persistent tiredness even after rest
- Heavy body, low motivation
- Difficulty eating or moving
Tips
- Eat small meals every 2–3 hours instead of large meals
- Add protein to every meal: dal, curd, paneer, eggs, tofu
- Add calories if intake is low: ghee, butter, nut paste, oils
- Start the day with whatever feels easiest to eat
- Gentle activity helps fatigue: short walks, light stretching
- Rest between activities; avoid pushing through exhaustion
2. Nausea & Vomiting
Commonly seen during: chemotherapy, injections, post-surgery, pain medications
What patients often experience
- Nausea triggered by food smells
- Vomiting or constant queasiness
Tips
- Eat before nausea becomes severe
- Choose bland foods: toast, crackers, rice, banana, idli
- Ginger support (if tolerated): ginger tea, candy, or aroma
- Peppermint tea may help settle the stomach
- Sip fluids slowly: coconut water, clear soups, ORS
- Avoid fried, spicy foods and strong kitchen smells
3. Mouth Ulcers, Dry Mouth & Taste Changes
Commonly seen during: chemotherapy, head & neck radiation, targeted therapy
What patients often experience
- Metallic or bitter taste
- Painful mouth ulcers
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Tips
- Choose soft, moist foods: khichdi, dal rice, oats, porridge
- Prefer cool or room-temperature foods
- Add gravies, broths, or sauces to food
- Sip water frequently throughout the day
- Sugar-free gum or lemon water (if no ulcers) may help saliva
- Avoid spicy, citrus, very hot, or crunchy foods
4. Diarrhoea
Commonly seen during: chemotherapy, abdominal/pelvic radiation, medications
What patients often experience
- Frequent loose stools
- Weakness and dehydration
Tips
- Temporarily choose low-fiber foods: white rice, toast, banana
- Hydrate well: ORS, clear broths, coconut water
- Eat small portions more frequently
- Avoid raw vegetables, fried foods
- Avoid milk/dairy if it worsens symptoms
5. Constipation
Commonly seen during: pain medications, reduced movement, dehydration
What patients often experience
- Bloating
- Difficulty passing stools
Tips
- Increase fluids gradually; warm water helps
- Include gentle fiber if tolerated:
- 2–3 soaked prunes or 5–6 soaked raisins
- Well-cooked oats or barley
- Light physical movement supports bowel movement
- Avoid straining; inform doctor if persistent
6. Pain, Body Aches & Stiffness
Commonly seen during: post-surgery, chemotherapy, injections, hormonal therapy
What patients often experience
- General body pain
- Joint stiffness
- Injection-site discomfort
Tips
- Take prescribed pain medicines as advised
- Gentle stretching within comfort limits
- Use pillows for proper body support
- Warm compresses if permitted
- Slow breathing helps relax tense muscles
- Report uncontrolled pain to the care team
7. Hair Loss & Skin Changes
Commonly seen during: chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapies
What patients often experience
- Hair thinning or loss
- Dry, itchy, sensitive skin
Tips
- Use mild, fragrance-free shampoo and soaps
- Gentle scalp oiling if dryness is present
- Avoid chemical hair treatments
- Moisturize skin regularly
- Wear soft cotton clothing
- Protect sensitive skin from direct sun exposure
8. Emotional Stress, Anxiety & Sleep Problems
Commonly seen during: All stages of cancer treatment
What patients often experience
- Anxiety, fear, emotional overwhelm
- Difficulty sleeping
Mental Hygiene tips :
- Practice simple breathing before sleep
- Maintain a calm bedtime routine
- Light daytime movement improves sleep quality
- Share concerns with caregivers or support systems
- Seeking help is part of care, not weakness