Know When to Call: Symptoms That Need Immediate Attention

During cancer treatment, your body goes through many changes. Some side effects are expected and manageable at home, while others require immediate medical attention. Knowing the difference can help you get the care you need quickly and avoid serious complications.

Call Your Care Team Right Away If You Experience:

Fever

• Temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher

• This could signal an infection, which can be dangerous when your immune system is weakened by treatment

Bleeding That Won't Stop

• Nosebleeds that last more than 10 minutes

• Blood in your urine or stool

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

• Unusual bruising or tiny red spots on your skin

Breathing Problems

• Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

• Chest pain or pressure

• Rapid heartbeat

• New or worsening cough

Severe Pain

• Pain that isn't controlled by your current medications

• New pain that comes on suddenly

• Headache that's worse than usual or different from your normal headaches

Digestive Issues

• Vomiting that won't stop or prevents you from keeping down liquids

• Diarrhea (more than 4 loose stools in 24 hours)

• No bowel movement for 3 days along with discomfort

• Severe belly pain or swelling

Signs of Dehydration

• Dizziness or feeling faint when standing

• Very dark urine or not urinating for 12 hours

• Extreme thirst

• Dry mouth and lips

Neurological Symptoms

• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly

• Severe headache with vision changes

• Seizures

• Difficulty speaking or weakness on one side of your body

• Loss of balance or coordination

Skin or Wound Problems

• Redness, warmth, or swelling around your IV site or surgical incision

• Pus or foul-smelling drainage from a wound

• Rash that spreads quickly or comes with fever

When in Doubt, Call

If you're unsure whether a symptom is serious, it's always better to call and ask. Your care team would rather hear from you and provide reassurance than have you wait and risk a serious complication. Most cancer centers have 24-hour advice lines specifically for this reason.

Keep your care team's contact information in an easy-to-find place. Save the phone number in your phone and write it down where family members or caregivers can access it. Know whether to call your oncologist's office, a nurse advice line, or go directly to the emergency room.

Before you call, write down:

• What symptoms you're experiencing

• When they started

• How severe they are

• Any medications you've taken

• Your current temperature if you have a fever

Your care team is there to support you through treatment. Don't worry about bothering them or calling after hours. Catching problems early can prevent hospitalizations and keep you safer throughout your cancer journey.

Written By: Carolyn Vandenbroek, MSDM

Reviewed By: Srilata Gundala, MD 

Disclaimer: This blog provides general educational information and is not a substitute for medical or psychological advice. Always speak with your healthcare provider and mental health professionals for guidance specific to your situation.