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 both symptoms can almost always be lessened by a change in the way you eat and with drugs that help relieve nausea and vomiting (antiemetics). Different antiemetics work for different people. It may be necessary to try more than one before you get relief. Don’t give up! Continue to work with your doctor and nurse to find the one that works best for you.

About half of the people receiving chemotherapy treatment feel queasy even before a treatment session begins. This is called anticipatory nausea, and it is very real. The best way to handle anticipatory nausea is through effective antiemetics to prevent vomiting and with relaxation techniques.

Techniques to help 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. 
• Eat and drink slowly. 
• 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 easier 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.

For more information on nausea and vomiting, please see the American Cancer Society/NCCN Nausea and Vomiting Treatment Guidelines for People with Cancer.

Revised: 12/09/2005