The side effects of cancer treatment depend on the type of treatment and may be different for each person. Most often the side effects are temporary. Doctors and nurses can explain the possible side effects of treatment. Patients should report severe side effects to their doctor. Doctors can suggest ways to help relieve symptoms that may occur during and after treatment.
Surgery causes short-term pain and tenderness in the area of the operation.
Surgery for colorectal cancer may also cause temporary constipation or diarrhea. Patients who have a colostomy may have irritation of the skin around the stoma. The doctor, nurse, or enterostomal therapist can teach the patient how to clean the area and prevent irritation and infection. Chemotherapy affects normal as well as cancer cells. Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea and vomiting, hair loss, mouth sores, diarrhea, and fatigue.