What to expect from chemotherapy for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma

Your haematology team reviews the lymphoma, symptoms, examination, blood tests and other health conditions before choosing a regimen. Treatment is commonly given through a vein, sometimes through a port, and may include medicines to prevent nausea or protect organs. A clinic visit can involve blood tests, an examination, pre-treatment medicines, the infusion and observation.

Cycles combine treatment days with recovery time. You might experience tiredness, nausea, reduced appetite, mouth soreness, hair loss, bowel changes or lower blood counts. Some people notice fever or chills during or after an infusion, and some medicines can affect nerves. Tell staff about symptoms during the visit and between cycles so they can respond promptly.

Keep a list of medicines and allergies, and tell the team about heart, kidney, liver or nerve problems. Arrange transport after infusions if you feel drowsy or tired. Take prescribed supportive medicines as directed, drink and eat as tolerated, and plan lighter activities during recovery. Check before taking supplements or over-the-counter medicines. If a port is present, follow the specific site-care instructions.

Call your haematology service promptly for the fever threshold they supplied, chills, a new cough, breathlessness, painful urination, repeated vomiting, severe diarrhoea, inability to drink, new bruising or bleeding, or redness and pain around a port. Emergency care is needed for severe breathing difficulty, collapse, sudden confusion, seizure or heavy bleeding. Keep the urgent number available at home.

Ask what each medicine does, how long an infusion may take, which symptoms are expected, and which require an immediate call. Discuss infection precautions, mouth care, fertility, work, exercise and travel. Ask how response will be assessed, when blood tests occur, and who provides advice outside normal clinic hours.