Chemotherapy: If You Are Considering It

Questions for the doctor

What is chemotherapy and how does it work?
What is chemotherapy used for?
Why do I need this treatment?
What medicines will I be taking? How often? For how long? What will they do?
What are the goals of chemotherapy for me?
How soon do I need to start treatment?
How effective is the treatment likely to be for me?
How will I know the chemotherapy is working?
What are the risks of taking chemotherapy?
Where will I get treatment? Should I bring anything with me?
Will I be able to drive myself or take public transportation to and from treatment?
Who will give me the treatment?
Should I do anything to prepare for treatment?
Can I take my other medicines during treatment?
Do I need other treatments as well?
What are the short- and long-term side effects that I can expect?
How long will the side effects last?
Will there be side effects I need to call you about? How do I get help after office hours, on weekends and holidays?
What can I do to ease or prevent the side effects?
Will I be able to have children after chemo?
Will I be able to go to work and be around my family and friends?
Will I need to change my diet or activities in any way? Are there foods I should not eat?
Are there in-person or online support groups that I can join?
How much will it cost? Will my insurance cover it?
Should I get a second opinion?
Are there any clinical trials I should look for?