Why does chemotherapy cause side-effects?
Chemotherapy targets cancer cells, which are unhealthy cells that divide and reproduce quickly. Chemotherapy can also affect healthy fast-growing cells within the body. These are cells which live in the stomach, mouth, skin, hair and bone marrow. Most side-effects are associated with these areas of the body. Doctors will be able to explain what drugs are being given and what the likely side-effects could be. They may also be able to prescribe other medicines to keep any side-effects to a minimum to make the child as comfortable as possible. Not all children experience side-effects. It is also important to remember that they tend to stop soon after treatment. Below is a list of the more common side-effects and the possible ways the care team may be able to help. For suggestions about practical ways parents can help their child visit our information for parents section.
