Which side effect should be monitored closely in a patient undergoing chemotherapy?

Severe fatigue is a common and significant side effect experienced by patients undergoing chemotherapy. This fatigue is often multifactorial, resulting from the direct effects of chemotherapy on rapidly dividing cells, including those in the bone marrow, as well as the physiological and psychological stressors associated with the cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Monitoring for severe fatigue is crucial for several reasons. First, it can greatly affect a patient's quality of life and their ability to engage in daily activities. Second, understanding the severity and impact of fatigue can guide healthcare providers in adjusting treatment plans, including scheduling rest periods or modifying doses of chemotherapy. Lastly, severe fatigue can indicate other underlying issues, such as anemia or nutritional deficiencies, which may require intervention.

While elevated blood pressure, persistent pain, or increased hair growth are also noteworthy concerns in a chemotherapy setting, they do not represent the same level of systemic concern as fatigue, which directly influences both physical and mental well-being during treatment.