what to do before first chemo treatment

8 Things to Know Before Your First Chemo Treatment

• Eat Light and Stay Well-Hydrated. Two to three hours before an infusion, eat light and make your choices high-fiber. ...
• Pre-Chemo Blood Tests 101. ...
• Ask Questions About Each Drug. ...
• Post-Chemo Medications. ...
• Staying Hydrated by Drinking Fluids. ...
• Plan on Having a Support Buddy. ...
• Track Your Side Effects. ...
• Allow for Fatigue and Recovery. ...

Full Answer

What to expect on your first day of chemotherapy?

Mar 09, 2022 · 8 Things to Know Before Your First Chemo Treatment. What, When, and Why. Every chemotherapy infusion includes a mix of drugs. Some are cancer-killing drugs while others are medications that help ease ... Bring a "Chemo Buddy". Stay …

What precautions should you take during chemotherapy treatment?

May 18, 2020 · Preparing for Your First Day of Chemotherapy. Organize your Information. On your first day of treatment you will encounter a lot of new, possibly overwhelming, experiences. It's a good idea to ... Plan how you will get there. What to expect upon arrival. Dress comfortably. Bring a …

Should I eat before chemo?

Feb 04, 2014 · Don't compare your body to how it was before chemotherapy. Drink lots of water. Go for a walk every day, if possible. Try to eat something. Find foods you can keep down. Many patients recommend bland foods. Read the provided handouts regarding chemotherapy and its side effects. Try acupuncture to help alleviate pain and nausea.

What to eat before chemotherapy?

Mar 08, 2013 · Preparing for chemotherapy. 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. It can be a pain, but, believe me, it's in your best interest. Use the extra time to relax before you go to your chemotherapy appointment.

What should I eat before my first chemo treatment?

What do I eat before going to chemotherapy?Plain or Fruited yogurt.Fresh fruit and cottage cheese.Poached egg and toast.Toasted bagel with a small amount of peanut butter.Cereal and milk (try Lactaid® milk, or Soy milk, if lactose intolerant)Chicken rice soup with saltine crackers.

Does Chemo make you sick the first 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 do on the first day of chemotherapy?

When you are done your first day of chemotherapy you may be emotional, exhausted, overwhelmed or ecstatic. You won't know exactly what to expect until you are living it. Once you are home, it is important to follow any instructions given to you. Take your medications on time, rest, hydrate, and eat.

How many days after chemo do you feel better?

Many people feel fine for the first few hours following chemotherapy. Usually, some reaction occurs about four to six hours later. However, some people don't react until 12 or even 24 to 48 hours after treatment. Some people experience almost all of the side effects described below, while others experience almost none.

How do I prepare my home for chemo?

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, keep hand sanitizer available, and have guests remove their shoes before entering your home. Keep household surfaces clean, and take caution in food preparation and cooking. If a family member does become ill, avoid close contact until they get better.

What should you not do after chemo?

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...•May 5, 2021

Can you 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, whole grains, and legumes.

Can I eat before chemo infusion?

Eat Light. Two to three hours before an infusion, eat a light, high-fiber snack. The drugs commonly used to prevent nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy can be constipating as well. Between staying hydrated and eating fiber, you should gain the upper hand on constipation.Mar 9, 2022

What to expect when you are done with chemo?

When you are done your first day of chemotherapy you may be emotional, exhausted, overwhelmed or ecstatic. You won't know exactly what to expect until you are living it. Once you are home, it is important to follow any instructions given to you. Take your medications on time, rest, hydrate, and eat.

What to bring to chemo infusion?

Most treatment areas are cold, so bringing a blanket is a good option since you will be attached to your chemotherapy infusion making removing and adding clothing difficult. You may also want to bring a lip balm or lotion with you to keep your skin hydrated.

What to eat in an infusion suite?

Some good snack ideas include: nuts, whole grain crackers, hard cheese, hummus, granola bars and fruit.

Do treatment centers provide water?

Most treatment centers will provide water . Entertainment. Most infusion suites allow for a visitor to stay with you during your treatment. A family member or friend can be a great distraction and it is also helpful to have someone else with you who can take in the information given to you.

Do you have to fill out paperwork for a blood work appointment?

Arrive on time for your appointment. You may need to fill out paperwork and you will likely have blood work drawn prior to your treatment. The results of this blood work may influence your treatment, so there will likely be a delay after the blood is drawn while the team awaits the results.

Can you sit in the treatment area for an extended period of time?

You may be sitting in the treatment area for an extended period of time, so it is important to be comfortable. Ensure that there is easy access to your central line, if you have one. A PICC in your arm will require the nurse to have access to your upper arm.

1. Different types of chemotherapy treatments are here

Don’t misinterpret chemotherapy as a treatment for one process. There are different types of chemotherapy treatments available according to the condition in which a person is. The chemotherapy is comprised of pills and IVs.

2. Prechemo blood test

When you reach the medical oncologist for chemotherapy, they will suggest some blood tests as well. Initially, they considered a complete blood count, or CBC, which provides the details of all the types of blood cells right there in the bone marrow and can affect the chemotherapy.

3. Eating creates a big role

When you are on chemo treatment, it is important for you to be on a good diet as well. Make sure that the diet is high in fiber. Before the treatment, you need to be sure that you are having light therapy only. Sometimes the chemo drugs have slow side effects, and this is due to how digestion is affected.

4. Not all chemo treatments cause hair loss

It is a myth among people that if they are going for chemotherapy treatment, they will face hair loss. But don’t worry because not all chemo drugs are the same and contribute to it. It all depends on the combination of drugs your doctor is giving you. The side effects include pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes hair loss as well.

5. Conversation with the doctor

When you are approaching the doctor for chemotherapy, make sure to ask all the questions you have in your head. You need to be sure about the medication they are using. Also, do ask them what to do if you face any side effects.

6. Uneasiness after treatment is normal

If you are feeling uneasy after chemotherapy treatment, it is normal. There will be no need for you to worry about it because this has no side effects. These are the effects of drugs that you had during the treatment. Make sure to have something available that will help you pass your time, otherwise, it will affect you psychologically.

7. Hydration is really very important

When you are on chemotherapy treatment or going through chemotherapy, make sure that you are hydrated. Drinking less water will contribute to some complications. The drugs that the doctor gives you during the chemotherapy treatment will dehydrate you, so it is important to take drugs that can help you counter the effects.

How to prepare for chemo?

Advice from other patients on preparing for chemotherapy 1 Bring warm clothing layers in case you get cold. Pack jackets, sweatshirts, scarves and warm socks. At MD Anderson, we have blankets available for all patients and a bed or recliner available depending on what type of chemotherapy you'll receive. 2 Bring something to do. Patients recommend books, laptop computers or tablets. We provide television and Internet access for our patients. Many patients also suggest listening to music that makes you feel good. 3 Include healthy snacks or chewing gum.

What to do for side effects of chemo?

Be sure to talk to your doctor about any products, minerals or supplements before you use them. Keep a chemo journal.

How to stay healthy during chemotherapy?

Stay healthy and strong. Take it easy. Don't compare your body to how it was before chemotherapy. Drink lots of water. Go for a walk every day, if possible. Try to eat something. Find foods you can keep down. Many patients recommend bland foods. Read the provided handouts regarding chemotherapy and its side effects.

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 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.

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 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.

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 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 help someone with chemotherapy?

Make a caregiving plan. People receiving chemotherapy may need extra help during treatment with transportation, household chores, and other tasks. Family and friends can provide valuable support during this time, called caregiving. Ask your team what type of caregiving at home you may need during and after treatment.

How is chemo given?

The most common way that chemotherapy drugs are given is through a needle into a vein. This is called intravenous or IV chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can also be taken as a pill, capsule, or liquid by mouth, as an injection or shot, or as a cream that is put directly on your skin.

How long does chemo last?

Most chemotherapy treatments are given in repeating cycles. The length of a cycle depends on the drug (s) you receive. Most cycles range from 2 to 6 weeks. The number of treatment doses scheduled within each cycle also depends on the prescribed chemotherapy.

What type of doctor is best for cancer?

Medical oncologist. This type of doctor specializes in treating cancer with medication. Your medical oncologist works closely with other team members to create your overall cancer treatment plan. They also lead your chemotherapy treatments.

How to get a blood test for cancer?

Have a blood sample taken. Meet with your oncologist so they can check your health and blood test results. Meet the nurse or other health professionals who will give your treatment. Have your blood pressure, pulse, breathing, and temperature taken before starting treatment.

What to tell your chemo team?

Always tell your chemotherapy team about any prescription and non-prescription medicines you take. Include vitamins and other supplements, such as herbs. This is to avoid drug interactions and other unwanted side effects. Your doctor will tell you if you should not take them during chemotherapy.

What is the best treatment for cancer?

Relieving physical and emotional side effects is an important part of your overall cancer treatment. This type of care is called palliative care or supportive care . Talk with your health care team about the side effects you experience and ways to manage and treat them. Learn more about the side effects of 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.