One of the most common side effects of chemotherapy are nausea and vomiting.

The common side effects during chemotherapy are

1. Nausea and vomiting
2. Hair loss
3. Fatigue
4. Increased the chance of bruising and bleeding
5. Diarrhea/constipation
6.  Anemia
7. Infection

Chemotherapy may affect specific parts of your body and you may have intestinal problems, appetite and weight loss, sore mouth, gum or throat, nerve and muscle problem, dry skin, kidney and bladder irritation, sexual problems and infertility effects on reproductive organs. It should be remembered that everybody may not have all the side effects. The severity of side effects varies greatly from person to person. Be sure to talk to your doctor about the problems, he may prescribe medicines which would help. Most side effects gradually disappear after treatment ends because the healthy cells recover quickly. The time of recovery on many factors including your overall health and the specific drugs you have been given.

A positive frame of mind ensures a better recovery.

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT NAUSEA AND VOMITING?

These two are the most common and dreadful side effects. The good thing is that both symptoms can always be lessened by a chance in the ways you eat and with the drugs that help relieve nausea and vomiting. The following measures can help:

1.      Avoid heavy meals. Resort to smaller frequent meals if necessary.

2.      Preferably drink liquids approximately an hour before or after meals.

3.      Eat and drink slowly.

4.      Avoid fried and fatty foods.

5.      Chew your food well.

6.      Drink cool, clear unsweetened beverage like fruit juice, light cold drinks after letting it go flat.

7.      If you are fond of aerated drinks, let the fizz escape before drinking.

8.      Suck ice cubes or mint candies.

9. Keep away from smells that you do not like.

10.    Regularly practice deep breathing.

11. Wear loose-fitting clothes.

12.    Try to distract yourself with activities which you like.

13.    If nausea occurs while the chemotherapy is given, avoid eating a few hours before chemo starts.