Quick read
Key points
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Chemotherapy uses medication to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells, and can be given for different purposes — to cure cancer, to shrink a tumour before surgery, to reduce the risk of cancer returning after treatment, or to control symptoms and slow the disease when a cure isn't possible. It can be given as tablets, injections, or through a drip, depending on the specific treatment plan.
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Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
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You develop a fever during chemotherapy, which can indicate a serious infection due to a weakened immune system
01 · Know
What is Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy uses medication to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells, and can be given for different purposes — to cure cancer, to shrink a tumour before surgery, to reduce the risk of cancer returning after treatment, or to control symptoms and slow the disease when a cure isn't possible. It can be given as tablets, injections, or through a drip, depending on the specific treatment plan.
Because chemotherapy affects rapidly dividing cells throughout the body, not just cancer cells, it can cause a range of side effects, including tiredness, nausea, hair loss, and an increased risk of infection. Your care team will closely monitor you throughout treatment and can help manage side effects as they arise.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
Side effects vary considerably between different chemotherapy drugs
Not everyone experiences the same side effects, and the specific drugs used significantly affect what to expect — your oncology team can give you a clear picture of what's likely with your specific treatment plan.
03 · Act
When to Contact Your Care Team Urgently
- 1You develop a fever during chemotherapy, which can indicate a serious infection due to a weakened immune system
- 2You experience severe or persistent vomiting, diarrhoea, or an inability to keep fluids down
- 3You notice unusual bruising, bleeding, or signs of infection
- 4You have any symptoms your care team has specifically advised you to report
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
A Fever During Chemotherapy Needs Urgent Attention
Because chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, a fever during treatment should always be treated urgently — your oncology team will have given you a specific number to call and clear guidance on when to seek emergency care.
- 1Follow your care team's specific guidance closely.This includes medication schedules, side effect management, and when to seek urgent help.
- 2Take anti-nausea medication as prescribed.These are often given alongside chemotherapy and work best when taken consistently, not just when nausea starts.
- 3Practice good hygiene to reduce infection risk.Handwashing and avoiding contact with people who are unwell helps protect a weakened immune system.
- 4Rest when you need to.Fatigue is common during chemotherapy — listening to your body and pacing activities helps.
- 5Reach out for support.Cancer support services offer practical and emotional support throughout treatment.
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Chemotherapy is a well-established cancer treatment, and your care team works closely with you to manage side effects throughout.
A fever during chemotherapy is always urgent — know your specific emergency contact number and use it without delay.