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Nausea and vomiting are 2 of the most common and most dreaded
side effects of chemo. How often you feel these side effects and how
bad they are depend on the drugs you are getting and how they affect
you.
Nausea and vomiting may start during treatment and last a few
hours. Sometimes, but less often, severe nausea and vomiting can last
for a few days. Be sure to tell your doctor or nurse if you are very
nauseated, if you have been vomiting for more than a day, or if your
nausea is so bad that you cannot keep liquids down.
The good news is that nausea and vomiting can almost always be
lessened by a change in the way you eat and with drugs that help
relieve both symptoms (these drugs are called anti-emetics).
Different anti-emetics work for different people. You may need to try
more than one before you get relief. Don't give up! Keep
working with your doctor and nurse to find the one that works best for
you.
About half of the people getting chemo feel queasy even before
treatment begins. This is called anticipatory nausea, and it is very
real. The best way to handle anticipatory nausea is by taking effective
anti-emetics to prevent vomiting, and by using relaxation techniques.
Things that may help you with nausea and vomiting:
- Avoid big meals so your stomach won't feel too
full. Eat frequent, small meals throughout the day instead of 1, 2, or
3 large meals.
- Drink liquids at least an hour before or after mealtime
instead of with your meals.
- Stay away from sweet, fried, or fatty foods.
- Eat foods cold or at room temperature so you
won't be bothered by strong smells.
- Chew your food well for better digestion.
- If nausea is a problem in the morning, try eating dry
foods, such as cereal, toast, or crackers, before getting up.
(Don't try this if you have mouth or throat sores or are
troubled by a dry mouth.)
- Drink cool, clear liquids, such as apple juice, tea, or
ginger ale that has lost its fizz.
- Suck on ice cubes, mints, or tart candies. (Don’t
eat tart candies if you have mouth or throat sores.)
- Try to avoid odors that bother you, such as cooking smells,
smoke, or perfume.
- Rest in a chair after eating, but don't lie flat
for at least 2 hours after you've finished your meal.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes.
- Breathe deeply and slowly when you feel nauseated.
- Distract yourself by talking with friends or family
members, listening to music, or watching a movie or TV show.
- Use relaxation techniques.
Last Medical Review: 03/08/2008
Last Revised: 05/15/2008
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