Drinking and Eating Changes

People with cancer might have problems eating food and drinking fluids. Common problems include changes in appetite or weight, or other side effects that make it hard to eat or drink.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are a common side effects of cancer and cancer treatment. Learn what causes it, how it can be prevented or treated, and when to get help.

Dehydration and Lack of Fluids

Learn about things that can cause dehydration in a person who has cancer and what can be done to treat it.

Mouth Dryness or Thick Saliva

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, happens when there is not enough saliva or there is thick saliva in the mouth. Learn about dry mouth treatment here.

Loss of Appetite (Anorexia) and Cachexia

Cancer and its treatment can have effects that cause a loss of appetite and change in eating habits. Learn more here.

Weight Changes

Weight changes during treatment for cancer are common. Learn more here about weight gain, weight loss and how to manage both.

Taste and Smell Changes

Certain types of cancer and its treatment can change your senses of taste and smell. Learn about common causes and what can be done to help.

Mouth Soreness and Pain

Some cancer treatments can cause sores or ulcers in the mouth. Learn how to lower the risk of mouth sores or help them heal.

Hiccups and Heartburn

Hiccups or heartburn can sometimes be caused be cancer and its treatment . Learn what you can do to manage them.

Swallowing Problems

Cancer and its treatments can sometimes cause people to have difficulty swallowing. Learn more here.

Related Topics

Bowel and Bladder Problems

Cancer and cancer treatment might cause bowel or bladder changes or problems. Learn what to look for and how to manage these problems.

Nutrition for People With Cancer

Nutrition is an important part of cancer treatment. Eating the right kinds of foods during and after treatment can help you feel better and stay stronger. Learn more about the importance of good nutrition during and after cancer treatment here.

Related Resources

Flyer: What to Do for Mouth Sores

Flyer: What to Do for Nausea and Vomiting

More Resources

Worksheet: Track Your Chemotherapy Side Effects

Worksheet: Track Your Radiation Therapy Side Effects

Personal Health Manager

Organize your cancer journey with the American Cancer Society Personal Health Manager.

Caregiver Resource Guide

A helpful tool for people who are caring for someone with cancer. View the complete guide here.