Chemotherapy problems

You should contact the hospital immediately if you develop any of the following symptoms during chemotherapy, or up to six weeks after chemotherapy is completed. Your doctor will provide you with specific information about the arrangements which are in operation at your hospital.

• Headache which does not respond rapidly to paracetamol.
• Bleeding or bruising, blood in the urine or motions, or small blood spots (purpura) on your body.
• Shivering or shaking attacks or fever. If you feel hot or unwell check your temperature. If it is elevated you may have an infection. You should contact your oncology centre, following the instructions they have given you.
• In general, it is not advisable to take aspirin or paracetamol if you have a fever during chemotherapy, since this may bring the temperature down temporarily, but does not treat any infection that may be causing the fever.
• You do not need to keep away from other people who are fit and well, but you should avoid contact with anyone you know who has an infection.