Starting Chemo? Here’s What to Expect from Someone Who’s Been Through It

Unsure about what to expect when beginning chemotherapy? Here are seven key things to keep in mind.

Chemotherapy, commonly known as chemo, is a treatment using drugs to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth. Having faced eight different cancers, I can tell you that chemotherapy has been a significant part of my life.

At times, the journey was incredibly challenging. For many, the word “chemotherapy” often feels interchangeable with “hell.”

Whether you’re supporting a loved one undergoing treatment or preparing to start your own, here’s what you need to know.

There Are Different Types of Chemotherapy

Currently, I’m living with metastatic cancer, meaning the disease has spread to multiple areas in my body. Because of this, I don’t receive the type of chemotherapy most people associate with cancer treatment—infusion chemo, administered intravenously (IV) in a hospital setting.

Instead, my chemotherapy comes in the form of daily pills. I also visit the hospital once a month for an injection designed to support healthy bone growth, as the cancer is affecting my bones.

Even with pill-based chemo, I still experience both common and uncommon side effects, though they’re less severe than when I underwent infusion chemo. Pain has become a constant in my life, and only time will reveal how I’ll feel as my condition progresses.

Educate Yourself

• Take advantage of the many resources and services available to support you through treatment. Your medical team, the American Cancer Society, and various nonprofit organizations can provide valuable guidance and assistance.
• Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor about alternative medications that might have fewer side effects. Open communication with your healthcare provider is key to finding the best approach for your treatment and comfort.

Always Have a Backup Plan for Hospital Visits

Unexpected challenges can arise on treatment days—your car might not start, or you might feel too sick or exhausted to drive home. Always have a plan B in place. Arrange for someone to accompany you or be on standby to help if your original plan falls through. Having support ensures you can focus on your health without added stress.

Not All Chemo Drugs Cause Hair Loss

Infusion chemotherapy, typically administered at the hospital over a few hours, often comes with a range of side effects that can last for days. These side effects depend on the specific drug or drug combination you receive and may include aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and, for some, hair loss. However, not everyone undergoing chemotherapy will lose their hair.

Certain drugs can also cause mouth sores or affect your appetite, taste, and smell, sometimes diminishing all three. While these challenges can be tough to endure, the hope that chemotherapy will effectively combat cancer often gives you the strength to keep going.

Feeling Uneasy Is Normal

It’s completely natural to feel nervous on your first day of chemotherapy. You may wake up with fear or anxiety, unsure of what to expect.

To help ease the experience, bring something to keep you occupied, such as a book, journal, knitting supplies, or any activity that helps pass the time. IV chemotherapy sessions often take several hours, so having something familiar and comforting can make the process a little easier.

Management tips

• Stay aware of any mood changes. Fear, confusion, and frustration can interfere with your life as you navigate this illness.
• Keep a journal to track how your body and your mind feel. This can also help you keep track of routine activities in case of side effects.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help or to delegate your tasks.

Be Prepared for Unexpected Side Effects

Chemotherapy can sometimes trigger unexpected and serious side effects, particularly if you have an underlying condition. For example, I have a bleeding disorder that led to a rare complication called hand-foot syndrome.

This condition caused blood to slowly leak from the small capillaries in my hands and feet, eventually escalating to major bleeding. I spent five days in the hospital and lost eight toenails as a result.

It’s crucial to be prepared for both the known and unexpected side effects of chemotherapy. Stay vigilant, communicate any changes to your healthcare team, and ensure you’re ready to manage unforeseen challenges.