Side effects of chemotherapy for bladder cancer

Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells. That can affect the lining of the mouth and gut, hair roots and bone marrow, which makes blood cells. You may notice taste changes, constipation or diarrhoea, tingling in the hands or feet, or changes in urine. Some bladder cancer plans use medicines through a vein, while others place treatment directly into the bladder; their effects are different.

Take anti-sickness medicines exactly as prescribed and keep fluids available unless your team has restricted them. Choose small nourishing meals, rinse your mouth gently and protect sore skin. Record temperature, bowel changes, urine symptoms and numbness. Ask before taking painkillers, supplements or non-prescribed remedies because they may affect treatment or kidney function.

Call your treatment team urgently for fever, chills, feeling suddenly unwell, repeated vomiting, inability to drink, severe diarrhoea, unusual bleeding, marked breathlessness or confusion. Seek immediate help for severe weakness or difficulty passing urine. Do not wait for the next chemotherapy appointment when symptoms are rapidly worsening.

Which effects fit my exact regimen, and which require a same-day call? What should I do if I miss an anti-sickness dose? How will my blood counts and kidney function be checked before treatment?