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Yes! You can still live a normal life, but be guided by how you feel.
You may want to set new priorities, and concentrate on the things most important to you.
Make sure, too, that you leave time for rest and relaxation. Accept offers of help from your family and friends (leave the washing up to someone else!) and don't feel guilty if you need to take things easy.
Can I carry on working?
Yes, if you feel like it. Many patients do carry on working, although they need time off for their treatment sessions.
Whether you can carry on working will depend on a number of factors such as the type of treatment you are having, how the drugs are given and the type of work you do.
If you are too unwell to work, you will be entitled to sick pay. For more information about financial benefits, click here.
Can I go on holiday?
Yes, you may well be able to. It is worth remembering that you will need to avoid the sun completely while you have chemotherapy, as the drugs can make your skin very vulnerable to sun damage.
You may find it harder to get travel insurance whilst you are on chemotherapy. For further information on this, contact the Macmillan Cancer Information Centre.
Please talk with your doctor about it - we will try to fit your treatment around your plans, or we may advise you not to travel. If you have to cancel your holiday we can write to your insurers to help you get your holiday money back.
If you need vaccinations for your holiday, discuss this with your doctor. You must not have any live virus vaccines while you are having chemotherapy.
Can I drink alcohol?
Drinking a moderate amount is normally fine - but it's best to check first with your doctor or nurse.
Can I try a complementary therapy?
In most cases there is no reason why not, but please check with your doctor or nurse first.
Can I breastfeed my baby?
No, because chemotherapy drugs may get into your breast milk and be passed on to your baby. Please talk with your doctor or nurse about this.
