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Questions to ask before starting chemotherapy
Before chemo, ask what the goal is, what the schedule looks like, which side effects to report right away and who to call out of hours. Write the answers down or ask someone to. Having them on paper makes the first cycles less stressful.
The plan
- What is the goal of chemotherapy for me?
- Which drugs, how many cycles, how often, and where?
- How will you check that it is working?
- What happens if I need to pause or change treatment?
Side effects
- Which side effects are common with my drugs?
- Which ones must I report right away, and what number do I call at night or weekends?
- What can I take or do for nausea, mouth sore, tiredness?
- Will I lose my hair, and can cold caps be an option?
Practical life
- How long will each visit take, and can someone stay with me?
- Can I work, drive, exercise and travel?
- Are there foods, supplements or medicines I should avoid?
- Who looks after my dental, mental and financial wellbeing?
If it applies to you
- Should we talk about fertility before starting?
- Is there a clinical trial that fits my case?
Start your record on day 1
Each evening note fatigue, nausea, pain, sleep, mood and appetite from 0 to 10, plus what helped. Bring it to every cycle. See the symptom diary template.
Frequently asked questions
What should I ask before my first chemo session?
Ask the goal, the schedule, which side effects to report right away and who to call out of hours.
Who should come with me?
A person whose only job is to listen and take notes.
What if I forget my questions?
Keep a running list on your phone or in a notebook and pick your top three before each visit.
For information only, not medical advice. For information only, not medical advice. Always follow your care team's guidance, and use the number you were given for anything urgent.