Introduction
Undergoing cancer treatment can be an exhausting and stressful time, both physically and emotionally. Everyday life can be challenging, and everyone will experience the journey differently, with some effected by side effects and fatigue more than others. The commitment and energy required to attend hospital appointments can also be draining in the long run (Cancer Research UK, 2026).
Family and friends often provide the emotional and practical support you need during treatment, but sometimes that support is not available when you need it. The Hilton Home Care Cancer support services provide access to skilled carers who can provide as little or as much support as you need.
This article outlines the main cancer treatments, what to expect from these treatments, their impact on you and the importance of support. Links to more detailed information are also provided.
How Have Cancer Outcomes Improved Over Time?
As a result of earlier detection and improved treatments, there has been a significant improvement in cancer survival rates over the past 50 years and over the past 15 years. With diagnosis and treatment improvements an NHS priority, it is anticipated that survival rates will continue to improve. Cancer Research UK identified that for all cancers mortality rates have decreased by almost a quarter (23%) in the UK since the early 1970s, and rates have decreased by around a tenth (11%) in the last decade.
What should I expect from Cancer treatment?
Cancer treatment can be complex, may require multiple teams of specialists and hospital appointments, medications and other provisions. Treatment pathways are decided on by a team of specialists from multiple services, called an MDT (Multi-Disciplinary Team), this may include oncology consultants, surgeons and specialist nurses. Treatment may include one of or a combination of the following-
Chemotherapy
One of the most common and standard treatment for some types of cancer. Treatment is administered and delivered via the blood stream, providing systemic treatment.
Surgery
A very common treatment for cancer, different types of surgery apply to different cancers, it can be used for curative and for palliative purposes.
Hormone Therapy
This involves medication to block or lower the amount of hormone to stop or slow cancer growth.
Immunotherapy
This teaches your immune system to find and attack cancer cells, it is often given in cycles, some alongside chemotherapy.
The above are the most common forms of treatment but there are many others. More information can be found at the MacMillan or Cancer Research UK websites-
Cancer Research UK – About Cancer
Macmillan Cancer Information & Support
Many people will undergo chemotherapy as part of their treatment plan. Chemotherapy comes in different forms and varies depending on the individual and type of cancer, it may be administered via injection or prescribed in tablet form. It can also be delivered via a drip in the arm, this may be administered at home but is often administered on a specialised outpatient unit attached to a hospital. You will have appointments to discuss your treatment, preferences and what to expect before your treatment starts with your oncologist. Chemotherapy units are designed to maximise comfort whilst the intravenous (into a vein) solution is being administered, also known as an infusion. The duration of the infusion will depend on the drug used and can be between 30 minutes to 8 hours, or even a few days (NHS, 2025). Specialised staff will ensure you are kept as comfortable as possible whilst you are in the unit or hospital.
Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and other cancer treatments can cause a range of side effects. As well as sickness, hair loss and a weakened immune system, treatments can also impact your memory and ability to focus. A very common side effect of cancer treatments is tiredness. This is because the body uses energy to repair damage to the cells or replace cells when undergoing treatment. Fatigue can be caused by the cancer itself, as well as being less active, being unable to eat as usual, anxiety and depression. Medications to treat cancer can cause symptoms or interact with other medications, which can also contribute to fatigue.
Some people may only feel unwell for a short period of time after treatment cycles, or recover quickly after treatment, it may take longer for others. Many will feel better within 2 weeks of their treatment, this is because therapy effects your red blood cells, causing anaemia, however your blood cell levels usually start to recover within 2 weeks. Your healthcare team will monitor the effects of treatment, such as chemotherapy, hormone or immunotherapy treatments, with regular blood tests.
Infection and Blood Clot Risk
Cancer and cancer treatments can also make you more susceptible to infection or blood clots. Your healthcare professional will make you aware of symptoms of possible infections and blood clots, you should contact your healthcare team or NHS 111 if you experience the following symptoms-
- High temperature or other signs of a fever, including shivering, sweating or skin feeling hotter than usual
- Sore throat, cough, vomiting or diarrhoea
- Symptoms of a urine infection such as pain and/or frequency when urinating or increased confusion
- Breathlessness or sharp chest pain, or coughing up blood
- Throbbing or cramping, swelling or redness in a limb
Hilton Home Care Cancer Support
Hilton Nursing Partners can support with daily activities during treatment, to help you rest and optimise your recovery. All HNP staff are also trained to recognise and act on signs of infection and sepsis and can support with monitoring and liaison with healthcare services, collecting prescriptions, shopping and drive you to your appointments.
HNP also offer temporary or respite care if you are caring for someone at home and need a break. For more information contact our office on 0333 200 1210.
Information Resources
Support is available for people with cancer and undergoing cancer treatment, your healthcare professional will be able to advise on the support available in your area. MacMillan and Cancer Research UK websites detail a vast amount of information about support, cancers and their treatments.
Information and support for caregivers can also be found at the links below.