Kiran Devi Kiran Devi Asked 7 months ago

Can chemotherapy cause weight gain?

My relative started chemotherapy a few months ago and I've noticed she's gained some weight, especially around her stomach. I always thought cancer treatment caused weight loss. Can chemotherapy actually cause weight gain?

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5 answers

Usha Sharma Usha Sharma Joined Mar 2026 7 months ago
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Yes, indeed. While we usually expect weight loss during chemo, the steroids they give to control nausea can cause water retention, bloating, and increased appetite, leading to weight gain. I found that eating low-sodium home food and drinking light coriander tea helped reduce the bloating.

Shreya Ghoshal Shreya Ghoshal Joined Feb 2026 7 months ago

Hey, please don't worry about the weight gain right now. It is actually a very common side effect, mostly due to the steroids given along with chemo, or even early menopause caused by treatment. Focus entirely on your recovery, your body will slowly return to normal later.

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Siddharth Goel Siddharth Goel Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Yes, chemotherapy can lead to weight gain, often due to fluid retention, decreased physical activity, or steroid-induced appetite increases. It's best to consult your oncologist and a clinical nutritionist to manage this safely without compromising your strength.

Amit Pandey Amit Pandey Joined May 2026 6 months ago

Haan bilkul, weight gain ho sakta hai chemo ke dauran! Actually, those steroid injections make you retain water, toh thoda sujan aur weight badhna normal hai. Zyada stress mat lo na, check with your doc if the swelling is too much.

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Tanya Kapoor Tanya Kapoor Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

Honestly, chemo makes you so tired that you are barely moving, and on top of that, the steroids give you massive cravings! It's a perfect recipe for weight gain. Don't feel guilty about it, your body is fighting a massive battle right now.

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