The side effects of chemotherapy depend on the drugs that are given. In addition, each person reacts differently. Chemotherapy affects rapidly growing cells, such as blood-forming cells and those that line the digestive tract. As a result, the patient may have side effects such as a lower resistance to infection, less energy, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores. She may also lose her hair.
Chemotherapy can also cause long-term side effects such as infertility.
Hormone therapy can cause a number of side effects, depending on the specific drug or surgical procedure, but they usually are not severe. When treatment interferes with the body's production or use of estrogen, the patient may have some of the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, interrupted periods, and vaginal dryness. Loss of appetite can be a serious problem for patients during therapy. Patients who eat well may be better able to withstand the side effects of their treatments. So good nutrition is an important part of the treatment plan.