Patient Leaflets — 8/11/2026

What Side Effects Should Make Me Call My Doctor Immediately?

Do not wait for your next appointment if your cancer team has told you that a symptom requires urgent attention.

Questions You're Afraid to Ask

The short answer

Do not wait for your next appointment if your cancer team has told you that a symptom requires urgent attention.

The exact warning signs vary with your treatment.

Depending on your situation, urgent symptoms may include:

Fever

Difficulty breathing

Severe or sudden pain

Confusion

Fainting

Severe weakness

Persistent vomiting

Significant bleeding

Severe dehydration

New neurological symptoms

Ask your oncology team before treatment:

"What is the emergency number?"

"What temperature should make me call?"

"Which symptoms should never wait until my next appointment?"

Remember

Save your cancer centre's emergency contact number in your phone.

Do not rely on an internet article to decide whether a treatment-related emergency is serious.

This information is intended for education and supportive care. It does not replace consultation, diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have cancer, do not stop, delay or change prescribed cancer treatment because of information found on this website. Tell your cancer-care team about all medicines, Ayurvedic preparations, herbs, vitamins and supplements you use.

Reliable sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI), World Health Organization (WHO), relevant national cancer-care guidelines, and appropriate peer-reviewed evidence.

Dr. Aakash Kembhavi

MD (Ayu-Shalya), PGDMLS, MS (Counseling & Psychotherapy) | Academician, Clinician & Researcher | Chief Editor, International Journal of Ayurveda

Founder of Cancer Support India.