Information

Dear Happychat

Welcome to the Online Community. My name is Fiona and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here on the Macmillan Support Line. I see that you are a member of several other forums, I hope that you are finding them to be safe and supportive spaces.

As you might already know, chemotherapy can cause a wide array of side effects, but the most important one to be aware of is that it lowers your immunity so your body can’t fight off infection so well. Most people find that their white cells, that fight infection, are at their lowest between 7 and 14 days after their treatment, which is when you will be most at risk of developing an infection. It is really important that you monitor your temperature if feeling unwell and if it is above 37.5degrees C you should contact your Cancer Treatment Helpline right away. In very rare cases, infections not treated quickly enough can very quickly become sepsis, which can be life-threatening.

It is best to avoid swimming during chemo treatment too.

You might be eating out more when you’re away, so it is worth reminding yourself which foods are best avoided and which foods are fine. Keeping your fluid intake up too is really important (up to 2 litres every day) especially if the weather is hot.

You may not be used to being in busy spaces so be aware of the risk of catching viral infections, including Covid. Some people prefer to wear a mask if they are in an enclosed space and it is always useful to take a few lateral flow tests with you, just in case. If you do pick up a viral infection please contact your Treatment Helpline as they can assess if you would benefit from antiretroviral therapy and let you know where to access it.

We know that tiredness and fatigue are common side effects of chemotherapy so try to pace yourself and make sure that you get time to rest and recharge.

There is further general information here too, including looking after your skin whilst on holiday.

We hope that you have a lovely time with your family. If you are worried about anything you are welcome to give us a call to talk with one of the nurses on our Support Line. We’re here every day and are always happy to help.

I hope this information helps.

Best wishes,

Fiona S

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

Ref: FS/LR

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.