Hi - I have just recently started chemotherapy and have had one cycle. I am worried about symptoms of a cold (sneezing) and whether this might develop into a full head cold and whether I should be worried? I don’t currently have a temperature.
Thanks for any advice. Jo
Hi Jo,
Thanks for getting in touch and welcome to the online community. I’m Kelly one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support line.
I’m aware that when you got in touch with us you mentioned you were worried about the cold symptoms you are having. I hope you are feeling better.
Chemotherapy can sometimes lower healthy cells such as the white blood cells. These cells help your immune system to protect you from infection including colds.
There can be a risk of developing a more serious infection if your immune system isn’t working properly during chemotherapy. Not everyone presents with a high temperature.
Although not everyone develops a serious infection it’s best to get any symptoms you are worried about assessed for reassurance.
If you haven’t already done so we would encourage you to get in touch with your hospital team either through a chemotherapy helpline number (if you were given one), the chemotherapy ward or named cancer specialist nurse today.
As they are directly involved with your care and have access to all your medical information about your diagnosis and type of chemotherapy you are having, they will be able to assess any symptoms properly and offer reassurance with things.
You can also speak to the GP or NHS 111 if you are unable to get in touch with anyone at the hospital for further advice.
I hope this information is helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch if there is anything else, we can help you with.
Best wishes,
Kelly (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)
Ref/DT
