According to the cancer charity Macmillan, more than 700,000 people of working age have been diagnosed with cancer in the UK. Whether you can work during chemotherapy depends on how you respond to the drugs, the work that you do, how well you are generally, the type of cancer you have and how supportive your employer is. Most people will be under pressure to work because they need the money but worry that they won't be able to cope.

Chemotherapy can go on for months (often four to six) and can make you exhausted, sick, dizzy and forgetful. Some research suggests that leading as normal a life as possible after a diagnosis of cancer makes people feel and do better. It can be a welcome distraction to go to the office. So should you try to work during chemotherapy or stay at home until you feel better?

The solution

There are no medals for bravery during chemotherapy. For every person who sails through it there is another who finds it a profoundly knackering, isolating experience.

Some drugs are more toxic than others and your doctor should warn you about possible side-effects. Often people feel terrible on the day they have treatment and again midway through, eg day 10 out of a 20-day cycle. If you go into hospital for chemotherapy given through a vein, you will be unlikely to feel up to working that day or the next, but some people do anyway.

Anti-sickness drugs can work well, although they can make you constipated over time. You may experience hair loss, a sore mouth or be at risk of infections because chemotherapy affects normal rapidly growing cells as well as cancer cells, and white blood cells are in this category. You should ask your oncologist if you can work and decide if you are up for it. Many people don't realise the Equality Act lists cancer as a disability and your employer must make reasonable allowances such as flexible hours, rest periods and lighter duties.

One of the hardest things is how colleagues react, especially if your hair is getting thinner each week. They may be embarrassed and not understand how ill chemotherapy can make you feel. Generally people with cancer prefer colleagues to smile, make eye contact and approach them directly about their illness. A diagnosis of cancer is not only frightening but can sap your confidence so you need support at work. But you may also feel stronger and more determined.

Don't work on days that you feel sick and try to be clear with work what you can and cannot do. Make more lists and notes to counter any loss of concentration. Outside of work get as much help as you can from family and friends.

Macmillan has campaigned on helping people with cancer go back to work. Call Macmillan's Support Line on 0808 808 0000 or visit macmillan.org.uk for more information.