SACT side effects: Taste changes and loss of appetite

You may experience taste changes and/or a loss of appetite. This may be caused by your treatment, nausea and vomiting or by a sore mouth.

To help with taste changes:

Avoid foods that don’t taste normal to you
Try foods of stronger flavours, new foods and add seasoning to your foods
Avoid very hot or very cold foods
Use plastic cutlery if food tastes metallic

To help with a loss of appetite:

Eat little and often
Choose foods that are high in protein and calories
Keep hydrated, drinking plenty of water
Avoid drinking a lot of fluid before eating

Call the Acute Haematology Oncology Unit (AHOU) if you are experiencing:

- You have a loss of appetite and are unable to eat or drink
- You are losing weight. You can be referred to a dietician for nutritional support
- You have a loss of appetite and also feel sick or you are vomiting, have a sore throat or mouth
- You are concerned about your lack of appetite