chemo

[dochall]

what to expect from chemo? I have not started treatment until biopsy results. What is best way to eat without being sick? Do you eat then take gravol then pain killers etc?

[Reem-ayoub]

Hi! Seems like you did not have a biopsy yet but did they tell you which type of Lymphoma you might be dealing with. As for chemo well depending on which chemo you will be taking. Some of them are more tolerable. However, each person is different. Be sure you eat well from now until you start chemo. Load on nutritious fruits and nuts and green veggies. Come chemo time you have to stay well hydrated. Start drinking plenty water. They will give you premedication to counteract any adverse reactions especially nausea. So during the session you may not feel much. They will also prescribe meds to help with the nausea when you go home. Take them as instructed and don't miss a dose even if you feel you can do without. This will last up to 5 days post chemo as it subsides gradually. My husband could not take in fluids and soups as they made him feel full and nauseous. Solid carbs are helpful. Some ginger on your food will help with the nausea. You might have a metallic taste in your mouth. Eat with a plastic fork. Start the habit of using baking soda and water to swish in your mouth several times a day especially after meals as it keeps the ph in your mouth stable and really helps with unwanted bacteria. Be gentle on your gums when brushing teeth. Use a soft brush. My husband takes vit D supplement. Consult with your dr first. Always be aware of your neutrophils. They tend to go down after consecutive treatments. By then the dr will advise you against eating raw veggies And fruits. As a precaution make sure you wash your food well before you use. Take walks whenever you can to keep your circulation going. Don't worry about the chemo. If you keep your body and mind strong you can get through anything. Oh as for what goes in first, my husband was given nexium to protect stomach linings which you take first thing in the morning, then half an hour later Nausetran to help with the nausea ( he took that morning and evening) and motilium whenever he felt the need or before food. You may have different versions whrrr you are. Wishing you well. Reem

[Tinkerbellcgy]

Reem has offered up some very good advice.

I will add to that by saying following the Canada Food Guide is a good way to eat nutritiously. Several small meals throughout the day is also helpful. I found yogurt and milk puddings helpful as snacks.

Sipping ginger ale helped with mild nausea. For any vomiting that may occur, Gravel is useful or have your oncologist prescribe Kytril. Please note that while Kytril is a wonderful medication, if you are paying out of pocket, it is very expensive.

As for taking pain killers, I have experienced two types of lymphoma 3 times in 8 years and I have yet to require any pain killers whatsoever.