Blood cancer side effects

Itching

If you have blood cancer you might experience itchy skin. Itching can be a symptom of blood cancer itself, or it may be caused by the treatment you are having.

Hair loss

Blood cancer treatment often causes hair loss as a side effect. It can be an upsetting side effect, but there's lots you can do to feel better about it.

Fertility problems

Fertility problems can be a side effect of blood cancer treatment. There are things that can help, from preserving fertility before treatment, to emotional and practical support.

Brain fog

Lots of people with blood cancer get brain fog as a side effect of treatment. There are things you can do to help.

Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition of the nerves. It can be painful, but there are lots of things that can help.

Coping with changes to your body or appearance

Blood cancer treatment can change the way you look and feel about your body - your body image.

Sleep problems

Struggling with sleep is a common side effect of having blood cancer or treatment but there are things you and your doctor can do to help.

Side effects Q&A with a psychotherapist

Lots of people struggle with their emotions when having blood cancer treatment. We spoke to a psychotherapist about what can help.

Infection risk and neutropenia

Because blood cancer affects the body’s immune system, people with blood cancer can be at greater risk of infection.

Sickness and vomiting

Some blood cancers and treatments for blood cancer can make you feel sick (nausea) and, sometimes, cause you to be sick (vomit).

Sore mouth or gut (mucositis)

Mucositis is a common side effect of some blood cancer treatments. It affects your gastrointestinal tract, which includes your mouth and gut.