Which side effect is frequently reported by patients undergoing chemotherapy?

Fatigue is a commonly reported side effect among patients undergoing chemotherapy. It can be a result of several factors including the chemotherapy itself, the underlying cancer, anemia, or inadequate nutrition. Patients often describe this fatigue as a persistent sense of exhaustion that is not relieved by rest. It can significantly impact their quality of life, affecting their ability to perform daily activities, engage in social interactions, and maintain a positive outlook during treatment. Understanding and addressing fatigue is vital in oncology nursing as it allows for supportive care measures to help manage this side effect, ensuring patients have a better experience during their treatment regimen.

While weight gain, vision changes, and swelling can occur in some patients, they are not as universally reported or common as fatigue, which makes it a key focus for healthcare providers managing chemotherapy side effects.