Courtesy of Roswell Park Cancer Talk Blog

Chemotherapy is tough. It’s a long and tedious process that sometimes includes curveballs before getting better. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make your chemotherapy treatment more manageable. Remember, it won’t last forever, and odds are often good you’ll be on your way to feeling better when it’s over.

How to prepare

  • Get a good night’s sleep: Ensure you get enough rest before each infusion. Chemotherapy causes fatigue, so a well-rested body will respond more effectively to treatment.
  • Drink plenty of water: The day before, water prepares your body for the dehydrating effects of medication. The day after, it helps to flush the chemotherapy meds out of your system.
  • Eat a light meal: A healthy, balanced meal before treatment will boost your stamina and energy levels. Chemotherapy sometimes causes nausea, so keep the meal light.
  • Make transportation arrangements: Designate a driver to take you home; some medications may make you drowsy or you might not feel well enough to drive.
  • Dress comfortably: “Design” your standard chemo outfit! Leggings or loose pants, slip-on shoes, cozy socks, a zip-up sweater, and a V-neck shirt (to make it easy to access your infusion port) are great go-to clothing choices for a chemotherapy session. Comfort is key!
  • Register for chemotherapy orientation. This session will provide you with an overview of what to expect during your treatment and include a tour of the infusion center.

What to bring

  • Entertainment: Roswell Park infusion cubicle has a television to help distract you during therapy. If TV isn’t your thing, bring your favorite books and magazines, or load your laptop, tablet, or smartphone with fun games or favorite streaming TV shows. Music and headphones are also a good idea: listening to your favorite tunes can help you close your eyes and relax.
  • Beverages and snacks: It’s important to stay hydrated before, during, and after chemotherapy. Water is the best choice, so pack a few bottles in your bag. Check with your doctor first, but if it’s okay, bring some healthy snacks to your session to maintain your energy. Roswell Park also provides crackers and water to each chemotherapy patient.
  • Candy or mints: Chemotherapy can cause dry mouth, nausea, and an unpleasant taste in your mouth. Candy and mints mask the bad taste and help manage these side effects.
  • Lip balm: Dry lips are a common side effect of chemotherapy. Using lip balm will keep your lips hydrated and help prevent peeling and cracking.
  • Travel-size pillow: Sitting in a chair for hours can become uncomfortable. A small, portable pillow works wonders for your neck.
  • Extra sweater or blanket: Wear layers or bring a soft, cozy blanket to stay warm, since hospitals can be cold. If you don’t bring your own, Roswell Park provides a heated blanket and pillow to each chemotherapy patient.