Side-effects of children's cancer treatment

Information on possible side-effects of children's cancer treatment.

Will my child definitely get side-effects?

Not all children will get side-effects, but many do. It depends mainly on:

The type of treatment
The dose
How long they have treatment for
How their cancer is affecting their body

Your doctor or nurse will discuss any possible side-effects with you before treatment. You can read about the different treatments to find out more about possible side-effects.

If you have any worries about your child, always let your medical team know.

How long will side-effects last?

Side-effects may happen straight away, 7-10 days following treatment or even months or years later.
Usually any side-effects from chemotherapy are worse just after treatment and improve towards the end of the rest period, just before the next chemotherapy treatment is due.
Some side-effects can last for a long time or even be permanent.
It is also possible for side-effects to develop and persist some time after treatment has ended. These are called late side-effects and will require ongoing follow-up.

Tips on coping with side-effects and symptoms

Some common side-effects and symptoms are listed below. You can read about how your child might be affected, how they are treated and get tips to help you cope.

Increased risk of infection (low white blood cells)
Anaemia (low red blood cells)
Bleeding / bruising (low platelet blood cells)
Hair loss
Sore mouth
Fatigue / tiredness
Infertility
Nausea and vomiting
Constipation and diarrhoea
Difficulty eating / weight loss

Related links

Care Kits

Families, adolescents and young adults dealing with childhood cancer often find themselves in hospital suddenly or without time to prepare. Our free Care Kit is an overnight bag filled with some essentials that you can have ready to go for when you need it.

CAYA counselling and psychological support services

Free counselling for families affected by childhood cancer.

Irish Cancer Society Fertility Project

The Childhood Cancer Fertility Project is a partnership between the Irish Cancer Society and Merrion Fertility Clinic which aims to ensure that, where possible, lifesaving treatment for children does not come at the cost of their future dreams of parenthood.

Parent peer support

Trained volunteers offering emotional and practical support to anyone whose child is going through or finished their treatment.

See more services

Talk to a Cancer Nurse

Support Line

Our Cancer Nurses offer confidential advice, support and information for anyone affected by cancer. Call or email supportline@irishcancer.ie. Video calls available. Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm

Call us Freephone 1800 200 700

In-hospital support

The Irish Cancer Society's Children’s Cancer Nurse at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin Hospital one day per week provides free, confidential advice, support and information to anyone affected by a child’s cancer.

More information