what to take with you to chemo treatment

• Your toothbrush (especially if you are using a soft toothbrush due to chemotherapy)
• A scarf or hat when you have no hair (it gets cold)
• Lip balm
• Your medications (make sure to bring along any vitamins, as well as herbal or nutritional supplements you have been using)
• Hand sanitizer
• Soft, fluffy socks
• Lotion

Full Answer

How should I eat before starting chemotherapy?

Jan 05, 2020 · The personal items you wish to pack in your tote will be different for everybody, but a few things to consider include: Your toothbrush (especially if you are using a soft toothbrush due to chemotherapy) A scarf or hat when you have no hair (it gets cold) Lip balm Your medications (make sure to ...

What is good to eat and drink after chemo?

Jan 20, 2021 · Try a sparkling water with cut up pieces of fruit added in or decaffeinated tea. Snacks. Eating adequate amounts of calories and protein is also important during chemotherapy. While your cancer center may have light snacks such as soup or crackers, you may want to bring something that you particularly like.

What precautions should you take during chemotherapy treatment?

Aug 03, 2020 · Chemo treatment centers typically have recliners for people receiving chemotherapy. Sometimes, centers or hospitals will also have hospital beds for people who need them, such as those at high risk of infection. Centers will also have blankets available, but you can always bring a favorite of your own plus a pillow or neck pillow. ...

What are some treatment options besides chemo?

Mar 12, 2019 · Items To Bring To Chemotherapy A loved one. “Bring somebody,” Ruiz says. “Having a supportive person with you can be a big help, especially on your... Snacks. At Henry Ford, crackers and juice are often available, but patients are encouraged to bring their own. However,... Hard candy. During ...

How to prepare for chemo?

Other ways to prepare for your chemo treatment include: 1 Getting enough sleep the night before your appointment 2 Eating a healthy meal before your treatment, keeping in mind that chemo may make you feel nauseous. Something light is best. 3 Making arrangements for someone to drop you off and pick you up

What to wear to chemo?

Make sure what you wear is comfortable. If you do need to change into a hospital gown or other attire, you’ll want a comfortable change of clothes in your chemo bag to put on when you leave. Make sure your outfit is easy to get on and off in case you feel tired after your treatment. ‌.

What is the treatment for cancer called?

Understanding Chemo. Chemotherapy is a treatment that uses one or more drugs to kill cancer in your body. It is often called “chemo” for short. Cancer cells in your body grow and multiply very quickly, and chemo slows this process. The drugs used in chemotherapy block cancer cells from being able to split and multiply.

How long does chemo last?

Your doctor determines the type and dosage based on your overall health and the severity of your condition‌. ‌. Chemo usually lasts for six to twelve months. You’ll have periods of rest between treatment sessions so that your body can recover.

What to do if you don't feel like reading?

Music. If you don’t feel like reading, listening to music is a great way to keep your mind off your treatment. You can include a music listening device in your chemo bag, or use the music player on your phone or tablet.

How to feel better after chemo?

When you are going through chemo treatment, staying hydrated can help you feel better. Try to avoid caffeinated beverages like soda, energy drinks, and some teas. Instead, pack water, fruit juices, or decaffeinated tea. ‌.

Does chemo kill hair roots?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a chemo treatment that targets cancer cells exclusively. So, chemo may also kill your healthy cells that grow quickly like your hair roots and those in your intestinal lining. ‌. You may receive your chemo drugs using an IV inserted into your veins or pills that you swallow.

What to eat during chemotherapy?

Snacks. Eating adequate amounts of calories and protein is also important during chemotherapy. While your cancer center may have light snacks such as soup or crackers, you may want to bring something that you particularly like.

What to wear to a doctor appointment?

Comfortable clothes. More than likely, you’ll be able to stay in the clothing you wear to the appointment. Think about wearing comfortable clothes, such as sweats or yoga pants. Also consider bringing a hat or zip-up hoodie to keep you warm.

Is Cleveland Clinic a non profit?

If it’s your first session, you might be even more nervous not knowing what to expect or even what to bring with you. Advertising Policy. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center.

What to bring for chemo?

Bring a Blanket or Throw. Chemo treatment centers typically have recliners for people receiving chemotherapy. Sometimes, centers or hospitals will also have hospital beds for people who need them, such as those at high risk of infection. Centers will also have blankets available, but you can always bring a favorite of your own plus a pillow ...

What to bring to chemo appointment?

Talk with your doctor or oncology nurse before your first chemo treatment. Ask if there is anything else you should bring to your appointment. They may ask you to bring all of your medicines and supplements. They may also have other supplies they would like you to bring. After your first appointment, you may only need to bring the medicines you take to treat or prevent side effects.

How long does it take to get chemo results?

Whatever the setting, a chemo appointment can take some time. The total time for chemo appointments can range from an hour or less to several hours. Your appointment may or may not start with lab tests. If so, the staff needs those results before they can ...

Who is Sarah Lewis?

Sarah Lewis is a pharmacist and a medical writer with over 25 years of experience in various areas of pharmacy practice. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy degree from West Virginia University and a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy.

Do chemo centers have TVs?

It’s likely that your chemo treatment center will have TVs and magazines. Some may even have individual TVs for each recliner or station. If that’s enough to keep you occupied, then you’re in good shape. If not, find out what other resources might be available to you.

Can you bring snacks to chemo?

Most centers allow people to bring snacks and drinks of their own. They may even have a microwave or refrigerator available for patient use. Chemo centers will typically ask you to avoid bringing foods with strong smells. This could be difficult for other patients struggling with nausea and vomiting.

What to bring to chemo?

Items To Bring To Chemotherapy 1 A loved one. “Bring somebody,” Ruiz says. “Having a supportive person with you can be a big help, especially on your first visit.” 2 Snacks. At Henry Ford, crackers and juice are often available, but patients are encouraged to bring their own. However, foods with strong odors are best left at home since they can irritate other patients or lead to nausea. 3 Hard candy. During treatment, some patients can get dry mouth, Ruiz says. Sucking on a hard candy can be an easy solution. 4 Lip balm. Another remedy for dry mouth. 5 Laptop, iPad or iPhone. “It’s always helpful to have something to do,” Ruiz says. On-screen entertainment can make your treatment go by quickly. 6 Knitting. Even if you can’t knit, consider learning from another patient who’s got the hobby down. 7 Pillow and blanket. “Many patients bring items of comfort that mean something to them,” Ruiz says. “Don’t be afraid to bring yours with you.” 8 Reading materials. Books, magazines, newspapers, tablets, etc.… Don’t rule out a stop to your local library before attending an appointment, either. 9 Playing Cards. “I’ve seen plenty of friendships develop in the chemo room,” Ruiz says. “Games can often bring people together.” 10 #N#Water. Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting. Staying hydrated can help alleviate symptoms. (Note: Water is provided in the Henry Ford treatment room).

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, vomiting. Staying hydrated can help alleviate symptoms. (Note: Water is provided in the Henry Ford treatment room). Before your first visit, Ruiz says, patients are also encouraged to get a good night’s sleep, drink lots of water and eat a light breakfast or light lunch.

What to do when you have dry mouth?

Hard candy. During treatment, some patients can get dry mouth, Ruiz says. Sucking on a hard candy can be an easy solution. Lip balm. Another remedy for dry mouth. Laptop, iPad or iPhone.

What to put in chemo room?

Pillow or Blanket. A pillow and blanket will come in handy if you want to sleep during your treatment. The chemo room is usually temperature controlled and having your own blanket will allow you to stay warm when necessary, while making you feel more comfortable in an otherwise uncomfortable place.

How to get rid of a dry mouth after chemo?

A toothbrush and toothpaste or a small bottle of alcohol-free mouthwash may be helpful for chasing a bad taste away. You can purchase gels, oral sprays and Soothease™ Natural Chemo Drops to minimize the discomfort of a dry mouth. Body lotion can soothe irritated skin. Look for products that are recommended for sensitive skin or products for cancer patients. If smells bother you, stay with unscented products.

Is chemo fun?

We all know chemo isn’t fun, but if you can think ahead and pack your chemotherapy tote bag with things that will make you feel more comfortable, then treatment will be easier for you. And every little bit helps!

Can you buy a chemo tote bag?

If you haven’t received a chemotherapy tote bag as a gift, there’s no reason you can’t buy one for yourself. Our own Chemotherapy Gift Tote will jump start your preparations, so you arrive at your chemo treatment appointments with supplies to keep you comfortable, well-nourished and entertained.

What to wear to get IV in arm?

Wear a short sleeve or V-neck shirt to make it easier for the treatment technician to put an IV in your arm or a port in your chest. Bring a sweater or sweatshirt that you can take off or put back on quickly in case you get cold during treatment.

How to make your head feel more comfortable?

Protecting your head from weather changes while keeping it warm in an air-conditioned treatment facility will help you feel more comfortable while you’re there. A hat, scarf or head turban can also be a colorful fashion accessory to cheer you up when you’re not feeling particularly cheerful.

Does drinking water help with headaches after chemotherapy?

Some patients get headaches during treatment. If you’re dehydrated, the intensity of your headache will likely be magnified. Drinking water or juice will keep you hydrated. It’s also a good way to flush the residual chemotherapy toxins out of your bloodstream faster.

How to stop chemotherapy?

Avoid gyms. Since chemotherapy can weaken your immune system, it’s a good idea to avoid crowded gyms during your treatment. Know when to stop. If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain during your workout, stop the workout and speak with your doctor about other ways to stay active.

How does chemotherapy work?

It works by using strong drugs to slow or stop the growth of cancer cells, which grow and divide more quickly than many healthy cell types. However, it’s still possible for chemotherapy to target healthy cells that also divide quickly. Some examples include cells in the digestive tract, immune system, ...

Why is it important to keep up with your body during chemotherapy?

Because of this, you’ll need to have extra calories and protein in your diet.

What are the side effects of chemotherapy?

When this happens, it can lead to side effects like lowered immunity, hair loss, and nausea or vomiting. There are certain precautions that you can take to limit your side effects and help make treatment safer. We’ll explore nine things to avoid during chemotherapy treatment.

How long does it take for chemo to pass?

Your body typically breaks down and passes chemotherapy drugs during the 48 to 72 hours after your treatment. Because of this, it’s possible for these drugs to be present in various body fluids, including urine, stool, and vomit during this time.

Can chemo cause mouth sores?

Chemotherapy can cause changes in your mouth and throat. When this happens, you can experience things like increased sensitivity and mouth sores. During this time, it’s important to avoid foods that can further irritate these areas. This typically includes items that are hard, acidic, or spicy, such as: crackers.

Can you drink wine while on chemo?

However, because some chemotherapy drugs can interact with alcohol, always ask your doctor if it’s OK to have a drink now and then. Frequent or heavy alcohol consumption during chemotherapy is generally a bad idea.