Mikebrad,
Different chemo drugs have different side effects, and each individual responds to the drugs differently. That said, the oncologist will be working with you on a very regular basis, and the chemo nurses will evaluate you before each treatment. The goal from the medical side is to keep you healthy enough that you can tolerate the drugs and complete the course of chemo.
It is absolutely critical that you report ALL symptoms you experience. Most likely you will be given a list of possible side effects for your particular drugs, and a variety of ways to minimize any problems will be described. Drugs can be changed, schedules can be modified and dosages can be adjusted - whatever it takes to get you through - but YOU have to report ALL side effects.
It is likely that you will have only a few minor side effects. It is reported that only about one-third of patients experience any particular side effect. All the chemo horror stories we seem to hear are from years ago, and there are better ways to prevent side effects today. Side effects CAN be serious, thus the need to report as soon as they are first noticed.
Below is a link to a NIH site with information on chemo side effects. DO NOT let the list discourage you. It is a list of side effects your care team, with your input, will work to avoid.
www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/side-effects
Best,
Jack
