how to prepare for your first chemo treatment

Try to stay as healthy as you can before and during treatment. Eat nourishing food, drink lots of water, get enough sleep, and balance rest and physical activity. Good nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce some chemotherapy side effects.

Full Answer

What to expect on your first day of chemotherapy?

• Keep taking lots of fluids, be moderately active, eat small meals often.
• Take your nausea medication if you feel any degree of nausea. In most cases when people suffer from nausea, it is because they did not take their medication.
• If the given medication does not relieve nausea, contact your treating doctor. ...

What to eat before chemo?

Before chemotherapy begins, a person should eat a healthy diet and try to maintain a moderate weight. A healthy diet should include various fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins ...

What to expect when having chemotherapy?

blood tests to check how well your kidneys and liver are working and the number of blood cells. x-rays and scans to check that you are fit for treatment and see how the tumour is responding to treatment. For some chemotherapy drugs you may also have: heart monitoring tests to see if the drugs are affecting your heart.

How to recover from chemotherapy?

• Exercise. Regular exercise increases your sense of well-being after cancer treatment and can speed your recovery.
• Eat a balanced diet. Vary your diet to include lots of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. ...
• Maintain a healthy weight. ...
• Rest well. ...
• Reduce stress. ...
• Stop using tobacco. ...
• Drink alcohol in moderation, if at all. ...
• Do what you can. ...

What should I do before my first chemo treatment?

Preparing for chemotherapyAsk about fertility. Some types of chemotherapy can affect your fertility. ... Pack a chemo bag. ... Look after yourself. ... Organise help at home. ... Discuss your concerns. ... Freeze some meals. ... Talk to your employer. ... Check your teeth.More items...

How sick are you after first chemo treatment?

Chemotherapy can make you feel sick (nauseated) or cause you to vomit. Not everyone feels sick during or after chemotherapy, but if nausea affects you, it will usually start a few hours after treatment. Nausea may last for many hours and be accompanied by vomiting or retching.

What do you say on the first day of chemo?

If you're struggling to find the right words, here are 12 kind things to say to someone with cancer:“I'm here for you.” ... “You are in my thoughts and prayers.” ... “I'm so sorry you're going through this.” ... “Let me help you with…” ... Tell a Joke. ... “How are you doing?” ... “Any time you need to talk, I'll listen.”More items...•

How long does it take to recover from first chemo treatment?

A dose takes a few minutes to a few days. It's also called a “round” of treatment. Once your infusion is done, it's followed by a rest period to allow your body to recover from the chemo drugs. This rest period is typically 2 to 3 weeks, but it can be shorter or longer.

What should you not do during chemotherapy?

9 things to avoid during chemotherapy treatmentContact with body fluids after treatment. ... Overextending yourself. ... Infections. ... Large meals. ... Raw or undercooked foods. ... Hard, acidic, or spicy foods. ... Frequent or heavy alcohol consumption. ... Smoking.More items...•

How long after starting chemo does hair fall out?

Hair usually begins falling out two to four weeks after you start treatment. It could fall out very quickly in clumps or gradually. You'll likely notice accumulations of loose hair on your pillow, in your hairbrush or comb, or in your sink or shower drain. Your scalp may feel tender.

When do you feel worse after chemo?

Nausea and vomiting can start within the first few hours after chemotherapy drugs are given and usually last about 24 hours. However, nausea and vomiting may start more than 24 hours after treatment and last several days (called delayed nausea and vomiting).

How many hours is a chemo treatment?

Chemotherapy treatment varies in length and frequency and depends on the individual treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. Some last as long as three or four hours, while others may only take a half-hour.

Do you feel worse after each chemo treatment?

The effects of chemo are cumulative. They get worse with each cycle. My doctors warned me: Each infusion will get harder. Each cycle, expect to feel weaker.

Do you need someone to drive you home after chemotherapy?

Ask your provider if the chemotherapy has fatigue or drowsiness as a side effect. In most cases, your healthcare provider will ask you to get a ride home after your first session to see how you will tolerate the chemo. If you feel well the first time, they say that driving home for future sessions is okay.

Can you drive yourself to chemo?

Have a friend or family member drive you to your first treatment. Most people can drive themselves to and from chemotherapy sessions. But the first time you may find that the medications make you sleepy or cause other side effects that make driving difficult.

Should I eat before chemo?

Eating a healthy diet before chemotherapy may help a person lower their risk of infection, cope with side effects better, and have a greater chance of receiving treatment without unplanned breaks. During this time, a person can prepare for eating while going through chemotherapy.

What to do before starting chemo?

Before Starting Chemotherapy. If possible, ask your healthcare provider for a tour of your infusion center. Some cancer treatment centers have private rooms for chemotherapy; at others, patients are in a common area. Seeing the space in advance will help you prepare mentally—and decide what to bring along during chemo sessions.

What to do during first chemotherapy infusion?

During Your First Chemotherapy Infusion. Plan to spend the day at the hospital or treatment center. When you arrive, a healthcare provider will check your vital signs, height and weight. You’ll probably have blood drawn as well. This information helps the healthcare team provide the proper dose of chemotherapy drugs.

How long after chemotherapy do you feel better?

Still, you should plan for someone else to drive you home. Side effects don’t typically hit until 4 to 6 hours later—and in some cases, not until a day or two later. A member of your healthcare team will probably call you the next day.

How is chemo administered?

Types of Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can be administered via pills, capsules or medicated liquid. It can also be infused into the bloodstream via an IV or injected directly into the body. You and your doctor will discuss which chemotherapy drugs and administration process is most likely to successfully attack your cancer.

Can chemo cause hair loss?

Nearly everyone knows chemo can cause nausea, vomiting, hair loss and other unpleasant side effects. But your doctors and treatment team will guide you through the process and help you manage these symptoms. Learning more about chemotherapy drugs, how they’re administered, and chemo side effects may help put your mind at ease as you prepare ...

Can you use perfume on chemo?

For instance, it’s now common for patients to receive anti-nausea medication before undergoing chemo. Don’t apply perfume or cologne on treatment days. Chemotherapy can alter the sense of smell, and you don’t want to unwittingly cause extra discomfort for anyone (including yourself).

Can you feel routine chemotherapy?

Report your side effects. Your healthcare provider can help you figure out how to manage any uncomfortable symptoms. While it will never feel routine to receive chemotherapy, in time, the process will become less scary and more familiar.

What to do after chemo?

After the chemotherapy is finished, the nurse will "flush" your IV line with saline and then de-access your port or take out your IV.

How do nurses start chemotherapy?

Your nurse will begin with a saline solution through your IV. As soon as the medications are delivered, your nurse will hang the bags of medication on the IV stand and then start the different IVs. You'll be given pre-medications first, then the chemotherapy.

How early can you get blood work done for chemo?

First, you may be told to show up a couple of hours early to get blood work drawn. This is to make sure you're able to get your chemotherapy treatment.#N#It can be a pain, but, believe me, it's in your best interest.#N#Use the extra time to relax before you go to your chemotherapy appointment.#N#When you arrive at the infusion floor and they have your lab results and a room available, you'll be called back to have your vital signs taken.#N#Once you are cleared at the vitals station, you will be taken to your chemotherapy room for your infusion.#N#At MD Anderson, you will have a TV, Internet access, a bed or a recliner and best of all warm blankets.#N#They also have food service at lunch and dinner if you're hungry.#N#At MD Anderson, you're allowed to have one caregiver with you in the infusion room.

How long does it take for chemo to arrive?

It usually takes at least 30 minutes for the drugs to arrive. Some of the pre-medications may be steroids, anti- nausea medications and/or anxiety medications.

How long after chemo can you go home?

They may have you wait 30 minutes after the chemotherapy is done to make sure you don't have any reactions to the medications. At that point, you can go home. Again, depending on your pre-medications and chemotherapy, you may have lots of energy or may feel very sleepy later in the day.

Is chemotherapy a word?

Chemotherapy. It's not a word people want to hear and certainly not something they want to go through. But, for those of us with cancer, we often don't have a choice. I remember how terrified I was of getting my first chemotherapy treatment. Would I be sick?

How to rest after chemo?

After your first chemotherapy infusion 1 Listen to your body. You may want to rest after chemotherapy. Drink water in small sips to avoid dehydration. Eat what you can when you can. 2 Avoid contact with anything that may contain chemotherapy. Chemotherapy leaves the body through bodily fluids during the 48 hours after infusion. Ask your care team how to avoid contact with any fluids or soiled items. 3 Keep a journal. Write down your medical teams' names and the dates of chemotherapy. Between infusions, jot down how much sleep you're getting, what you're eating and how you're feeling. This can help you and your team understand what works best for you.

How to avoid dehydration after chemotherapy?

Drink water in small sips to avoid dehydration. Eat what you can when you can. Avoid contact with anything that may contain chemotherapy. Chemotherapy leaves the body through bodily fluids during the 48 hours after infusion. Ask your care team how to avoid contact with any fluids or soiled items. Keep a journal.

What to bring to the Infusion Center?

The infusion center has coffee, tea, juice, ginger ale and crackers to eat, and you can also bring special snacks or drinks that appeal to you. Dress for comfort. Wear comfortable clothing with layers, to adjust to temperature changes as needed. You can also bring sweaters, socks, and a hat.

How to ask your oncology team about supplements?

Remember to ask your care team about any nutritional products or supplements before you take them. Arrange for help at home and work. Clear your schedule for your appointment. If your oncology team suggests you may need to rest afterwards, speak with your employer about accommodating your schedule.

Is it apprehensive to get chemo in 2020?

Updated: February 17, 2020. Many people are apprehensive before their first chemotherapy appointment. Preconceived notions and misinformation can add to the stress. “I think it is important to emphasize that the effects of treatments vary enormously depending upon the specific drug,” affirmed Martin Edelman, MD, ...

How to help your family after chemotherapy?

Loved ones can help by cooking and freezing meals for your family ahead of time, volunteering to baby-sit, running errands, or just lending a hand around the house. 5. Learn how to handle waste. In the 48 hours after treatment, small amounts of chemotherapy drugs will leave your body through urine, vomit, and other body fluids.

How to get tired after chemo?

You might just want to go home and take a nap or relax. You may feel very tired the day after a session as well. 4. Arrange for help with meals and child care.

What to do if you have a sore mouth during chemo?

Mouth sores are a common side effect, so it's smart to get dental work or cleanings before you start your sessions. You should also ask about good oral care during chemo, like brushing with a soft toothbrush and using an alcohol-free mouth rinse. 7. Stock up on healthy groceries.

Can you wear a wig before chemo?

You might lose your hair, so think about whether you'll want to wear a wig, a hat, or a scarf until it grows back. If you shop for a wig before you start treatments, you'll have more energy. Plus you'll be able to better match your hair's natural color and texture. You can also cut your hair short before chemo starts.

Can you get pregnant while on chemo?

You or your partner should not get pregnant while you're having treatment, since chemotherapy drugs can damage sperm and cause birth defects. The drugs can also stay in semen and vaginal fluids, so even if you take birth control pills, you should use condoms.

Can you schedule chemotherapy time off?

Some people schedule chemotherapy around their work hours, Many others find that they need time off both for the treatment appointments and in the days or weeks after. Know your options and your rights. The law requires many companies to give their employees time off for chemotherapy.

How to Prepare Your Home

For starters, you should wash your hands often and stay away from crowds. You should also:

Other Steps You and Your Family Can Take

Wash your hands often andfor at least 20 seconds. Anyone who is around you should do the same. Don’t be shy about asking them to scrub up. It’s best to use regular soap with warm or cold water. Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol is the next best option.

What Happens if You Get Sick?

If you have a fever, call your doctor or go to the hospital right away. Don’t wait until the morning. If you go to the emergency room, make sure you let them know you’re getting chemotherapy. You’ll need fast treatment. It’s considered a medical emergency if you get an infection while you’re on chemotherapy.

How to prepare for chemo?

be unique, I hope these tips help you feel a little more prepared for your own chemotherapy journey. 1. Prepare Your Chemo Bag . Like packing for a trip, packing a chemo bag can make you feel a little more prepared for the experience. Most chemo days will be extremely long ...

How to get your teeth cleaned before chemo?

Chemo can wreck havoc on your mouth and you will not be cleared to return to the dentist until 3-4 after your last chemotherapy session. This is a precaution to avoid a bacterial bloodstream infection.

How to deal with cancer?

3. Take Care of Your Mental Health 1 Familiarize yourself with calming breathing exercises. Check out this video guide I led. 2 Incorporate mindfulness practices 3 Educate yourself on the mental side of cancer can make the feelings themself feel less daunting. You are not along in these feelings and they are not abnormal 4 Read my post about Managing Cancer Induced Stress & Anxiety 5 Talk to a mental health professional - if the person has experience with cancer patients that is even better (check with your cancer center for referrals) 6 Talk to your doctor about medications you can try. I have been on a low dose Citalopram since the end of chemo and it helped so much. I was also on Ativan for the panic attacks during active treatment. 7 Determine what tools calm you and helps process your emotions. I liked journalling, listening to guided meditation tracks during appointments and reading inspirational stories

What to drink before chemo?

Drinking lots of water, green tea (unsweetened) or bone broth* can really help. Drinking lots of liquid before, during and after chemotherapy sessions can also alleviate feelings of nausea and help flush the toxins out ...

Can you use biotene toothpaste during chemo?

This is a precaution to avoid a bacterial bloodstream infection. Biotene mouthwash and toothpaste are wonderful during chemotherapy for maintaining dental care and they won't irritate sensitive gums or mouth sores (another common side effect). 5. Prepare for Hair Loss.

Can chemo make your skin sensitive?

Chemotherapy can make your skin extremely sensitive and "fragrance" can be a term used to conceal chemicals that may have an adverse effect on your skin. If your face is particular dry, check out this DIY face mask post for an at home solution to dry sensitive skin.

Can chemotherapy help nausea?

While there is no magic solution for everyone's nausea, there are tons of options you can try. In my experience it's all about trial and error as you go through your chemotherapy. Don't give up if the first medication doesn't work. Here are some of the things that worked for me:

How to prepare for chemotherapy?

Freeze some meals. You may not feel like cooking during the weeks of your chemotherapy treatment. Consider making some meals ahead and freezing them or have ready-to-eat food available (e.g. tinned fruit, yoghurt, soup). Sometimes, family and friends will arrange a meal roster.

How to reduce side effects of chemotherapy?

Eat nourishing food, drink lots of water, get enough sleep, and balance rest and physical activity. Good nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce some chemotherapy side effects. If you smoke, try to quit. For support, call the Quitline on 13 7848 or visit iCanQuit.

What to put in chemo bag?

A bag for your chemo sessions could include warm clothing in case you get cold; healthy snacks; lip balm; and something to pass the time, such as books, magazines, crossword puzzles, music with headphones, or a laptop computer or tablet.

Can you have your teeth checked before chemo?

The dentist can check for any decayed teeth that may cause issues if they need to be removed while you’re having chemotherapy.

Does chemotherapy affect fertility?

Some types of chemotherapy can affect your fertility. Whether you are a man or a woman, if you think you may want to have children in future, talk to your specialist about your options before chemotherapy begins.