New anti-nausea medications are extremely effective. Diarrhea may occur in the weeks following treatment, but it can be controlled with medication. Hair loss is a side effect that is rarely a factor during the treatment of colorectal cancer, but should your hair thin, it always grows back after treatment is completed. Fatigue, another possible side effect of chemotherapy, can usually be managed by reducing your schedule and letting others take over some of your responsibilities. Your oncologist and chemotherapy nurse will tell you what to expect and will work with you to minimize these side effects.
Most patients are able to continue working while receiving chemotherapy.
Your colorectal surgeon, working with pain specialists, will design a strategy to meet your needs.