Chemotherapy: Treating Cancer

Peer Review Status: Internally Reviewed by Cancer Center Staff
First Published: 1993
Last Revised: October 2002

Table of Contents

Welcome to the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. This booklet provides information about chemotherapy what it is, how it works, and side effects that can occur. Our goal is to provide you with information about ways to control some of the side effects of chemotherapy. Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and physician assistants are here, in person or by phone, to answer any questions you may have.

When you are counseled about the side effects of your treatment, you may also receive written materials to explain the side effects unique to that medication.

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

• What is Chemotherapy
• How Chemotherapy is Given
• Special Considerations
• Managing the Side Effects
• Mouth Care
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Hair Loss
• Skin Reaction / Changes
• Nutrition and Chemotherapy
• Urinary Considerations
• Hormone Therapy
• Fertility and Sexual Function
• Stress
• Immunizations
• For More Information