NAUSEA AND VOMITING

Are nausea and vomiting frequent side effects?

Current anti-nausea treatment has greatly reduced the side effects. However, even despite these drugs, some patients still have them.

Do all types of chemotherapy cause nausea and vomiting?

No! The probability of these side effects developing varies according to which drugs are used.

When should anti-nausea medicine be taken?

It should be taken regularly and before the appearance of the symptoms. Instructions regarding when and how to take them and the dosage should be followed closely.

How should meals be eaten?

Eat and drink slowly, chewing food well in order to favour digestion; eat dry and slightly salty foods; have small and frequent meals; if possible avoid cooking and being in the kitchen during food preparation since the smell could cause nausea and vomiting; get some exercise before each meal.

Is it preferable to eat more in the morning or the evening?

Nausea and vomiting are generally less present in the morning, so in this case more food should be consumed in the morning at breakfast and then at a mid-morning snack.

What should you drink?

Drinks, especially sugared ones, can increase nausea if drunk at mealtime. On the contrary, sugared drinks, if consumed between meals, can help to reduce nausea. It is therefore better to drink largely between meals (juice, Gatorade, tea, mint flavoured drinks).

What should you avoid?

Rich, fatty and fried food. It is better not to eat meals in bed.

Can you drink alcohol?

It is better to avoid alcohol. Patients can drink a glass of wine with meals if they so wish.

Does your mood and emotional state influence nausea and vomiting?

Yes! Anxiety can lead to the onset or a worsening of these symptoms.

What should you do in this case?

You should take tranquillisers after consulting a doctor in order to approach more calmly chemotherapy.

When should you consult your doctor?

If you have more than three episodes of vomiting in an hour or two or three one right after another; if nausea lasts for more than three days after chemotherapy; if there is blood or dark matter in the vomit; if the vomit enters the respiratory channels; if you are unable to drink or eat for an entire day; if you are unable to take your prescribed drugs; if signs of dehydration appear (dry mouth and skin, decrease in quantity of urine, paler urine) and/or if you find yourself in a confused state.