Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chemotherapy treatment for cancer. But in most cases, these side effects can be controlled with preventive medications. You and your doctor can take steps to prevent or decrease nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. This can help make you more comfortable during your cancer treatment. For example:
- Eat small meals. Stagger small meals throughout the day rather than eating fewer, larger meals. If possible, don't skip meals. Eating a light meal a few hours before treatment also may help.
- Eat what appeals to you. It's best, however, to avoid foods that are sweet, fried or fatty. In addition, cool foods may give off less-bothersome odors. Cook and freeze meals in advance of treatment to avoid cooking when you're not feeling well. Or have someone else cook for you.
- Drink lots of fluids. Try cool beverages such as water, unsweetened fruit juices, tea or ginger ale that's lost its carbonation. It may help to drink small amounts throughout the day, rather than larger amounts less frequently.
- Avoid unpleasant smells. Pay attention to what smells trigger nausea for you. For some, a specific smell, such as the smell of something frying or a greasy smell, may cause nausea. Other people may experience nausea when smelling any strong odor. Limit exposure to unpleasant smells. Fresh air may help.
- Make yourself comfortable. After eating, rest, but don't lie flat for a couple of hours. Try wearing loosefitting clothing and keeping yourself distracted.
- Use relaxation techniques. Examples include meditation and deep breathing.
- Try abstaining from food (fasting) before chemotherapy. Several studies are evaluating the potential benefits of fasting prior to chemotherapy. Preliminary results suggest that fasting for 12 or more hours before a chemotherapy treatment may decrease the chance of nausea. While more evidence is needed before a firm recommendation can be made, this approach may be worth a try if you're experiencing nausea with chemotherapy. If you have diabetes or other medical conditions, make sure you talk with your doctor first.
These self-care measures may help you prevent nausea and vomiting, but they can't take the place of anti-nausea medications.
