Nausea is a very common side effect for people going through cancer treatment. Chemotherapy, radiation, pain medicines, and steroids can all cause nausea. There are many ways to help treat nausea, including medicine, integrative treatments, and home remedies.
Nausea Medicine
Nausea is treated with medicines called antiemetics. Sometimes it takes more than one medicine to get relief. Your health care team will help you find the best medicine for you. Make sure to tell your care team if the medicine does not control your nausea. They can help you find a different antiemetic to try.
What to Eat When Feeling Nauseated
Try to keep something in your stomach. On treatment days, eat a small meal or snack before treatment begins. Sip liquids slowly throughout the day. Eat bland foods, such as dry toast and crackers. Try small amounts of food that are easy to eat—pudding, ice cream, yogurt, and milkshakes.
Guided Imagery for Nausea
Imagine a place that is relaxing for you. It can be a vacation spot, a room at home, or some other pleasant location. While trying to imagine what you feel, hear, see, and taste in the pleasant place, you can block out nausea and vomiting.
Posture for Nausea
Try to rest quietly while sitting upright for at least an hour after each meal. If you are in bed, lie on your side.
Distraction from Nausea
Distract yourself with soft music, a favorite TV program, video games, or the company of others. Anything that entertains you or helps you relax can take your mind away from negative physical feelings.
Wellness and Integrative ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Treatments for Nausea
Music therapy, acupuncture, and mindfulness can help with nausea. The Linda B. and Robert B. Wiggins Wellness & Integrative ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ Center at Huntsman Cancer Institute (HCI) offers many of these options.
The Acute Care Clinic offers same-day care for cancer patients who need quick treatment for side effects and other issues such as nausea.