Short term side effects include nausea, constipation or diarrhea, hair loss, vomiting, fatigue, mouth ulcers, skin irritation, weight gain or loss, puffiness, moodiness, poor concentration and hot flushes. These side effects can be managed with a combination of medication, and other practical remedies.

• Drinking lots of prune juice (or take magnesium tablets if you are having plumbing problems)
• Have a shaving party with your friends and family
• Keep a ‘barf bag’ near at all times, especially in the car!
• Try to remain physically active; you could even go for short walks outside
• Avoid acidic foods if ulcers are a problem and keep your mouth moist by drinking lots of water
• Chew on sugar free gum or suck on strong lollies to get rid of ‘cancer mouth’: a metallic taste that never seems to go away
• Do not eat any favourite foods immediately after treatment (they may never be a favourite again!)
• Have small meals frequently, rather than three large ones.
• Eat foods that are enriched with herbs and spices as sometimes the drugs weaken your taste buds