What are common side effects of chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy is a treatment that targets rapidly dividing cancer cells, but it also affects other rapidly dividing cells in the body. This is why certain side effects occur. The most common side effects associated with chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.

Nausea and vomiting are particularly prevalent due to the impact of chemotherapy on the gastrointestinal system. Many chemotherapeutic agents stimulate the vomiting center in the brain, leading to these symptoms. Additionally, fatigue is a significant concern as chemotherapy can affect blood cell production, leading to anemia, which in turn decreases the body's ability to provide sufficient energy and endurance, causing patients to feel overwhelmingly tired.

While other choices do mention effects, they do not accurately reflect the common experiences of patients undergoing chemotherapy. For instance, skin reactions can occur, but they are not as universally experienced or as impactful as nausea and fatigue. Memory loss and blindness are not standard side effects linked to chemotherapy. Lastly, weight gain and increased appetite are not common; rather, patients often experience weight loss due to nausea and changes in metabolic rates. Thus, the side effects listed in the correct choice encompass the most frequent and debilitating ones faced by those receiving chemotherapy.