Although chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and a bone marrow transplant are
life saving measures, these treatments do come with a price. Similar to other
drugs and treatments, there are certain risks or side effects associated with
each of these three methods. It is important for physicians to inform patients
of all possible side effects. Moreover, cancer patients should inquire about
these side effects.
Chemotherapy:
Side effects caused by this drug include anemia, poor appetite, nausea,
weight loss, hair loss, vomiting, mouth and lip sores, bruising easily,
infertility, cessation of menstrual cycle, and vaginal dryness.
Radiation Therapy:
Side effects caused by radiation include extreme fatigue, darkening of
skin, numbness in limbs, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood count.
Bone Marrow
Transplant: The most common side effect associated with this
treatment method is infection. In addition, the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
patient's body may reject or attack the donor's marrow.