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How can I manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy?

How can I manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy?

Forum / Cancer CommunityCategory: Lung CancerHow can I manage nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy?
Avatar photoCTF Help Staff asked 1 year ago
Managing nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. Here are several strategies to help manage these side effects:

Medications

  1. Antiemetics: Medications specifically designed to prevent or control nausea and vomiting.
    • Serotonin Antagonists: Ondansetron (Zofran), granisetron (Kytril).
    • NK1 Receptor Antagonists: Aprepitant (Emend), fosaprepitant.
    • Dopamine Antagonists: Metoclopramide (Reglan), prochlorperazine (Compazine).
    • Steroids: Dexamethasone can enhance the effect of antiemetics.
    • Benzodiazepines: Lorazepam (Ativan) can help with anticipatory nausea and vomiting.

Dietary Adjustments

  1. Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than large meals can help manage nausea.
  2. Avoiding Strong Odors: Foods with strong smells can trigger nausea, so it's beneficial to avoid these.
  3. Bland Foods: Foods like crackers, toast, and rice are less likely to cause nausea.
  4. Cold or Room Temperature Foods: Hot foods can sometimes exacerbate nausea, so sticking to cooler options can be helpful.

Lifestyle Changes

  1. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial. Sipping clear fluids like water, ginger ale, or clear broths can help.
  2. Rest and Relaxation: Adequate rest and relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can reduce stress-related nausea.
  3. Acupressure: Applying pressure to certain points on the body, like the P6 point on the wrist, may help relieve nausea.

Alternative Therapies

  1. Ginger: Ginger supplements or ginger tea can help reduce nausea.
  2. Peppermint: Peppermint tea or aromatherapy can also be soothing.

Behavioral Techniques

  1. Distraction: Engaging in activities like watching TV or listening to music can distract the mind and reduce the perception of nausea.
  2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT can help manage anticipatory nausea by changing negative thought patterns associated with chemotherapy.

Consult Your Healthcare Team

  1. Personalized Plan: Always consult with your healthcare team to create a personalized plan that considers your specific situation and treatment regimen. They can adjust medications and provide additional support.
For further details and specific recommendations, you can refer to reputable sources such as the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Institute, and Mayo Clinic​ (Comprehensive Cancer Information)​​ (Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center)​​ (MD Anderson Cancer Center)​.