CancerExplained.org · Free health handout
Side Effect Tracker
Record treatment side effects between visits
For each side effect, record
- What it is (e.g. nausea, tingling hands, mouth soreness): ____________
- When it started, and how many days since your last treatment: ____________
- How bad it is on a 0–10 scale, and whether it is getting better or worse: ____________
- What you tried, and whether it helped: ____________
Before your next visit
- Mark the two or three side effects that bother you most.
- Note anything that stopped you from eating, sleeping, or daily activities.
- Write down questions about anything new or confusing.
Ask your healthcare team
- Which side effects should I report right away, and which can wait for my next visit?
- What is the after-hours number to call? ____________
- Is there anything that can prevent or ease the side effects I'm tracking?
Many side effects can be eased — but only if your healthcare team knows about them. Tracking makes that conversation easier.
This handout is for education only and is not medical advice. Talk with a qualified healthcare professional about what is right for you.
Sources: NCI: Side effects of cancer treatment. Updated 2026-07-05.
Learn more in plain language: https://cancerexplained.org/side-effects/side-effects-overview/ — free to copy and share for non-commercial education.