How To Deal With Radiation Induced Nausea and Vomiting

March 6th, 2024 | Cancer, Nausea

Dealing With Chemos Greatest Side Effect

One of the methods of medicine used to treat cancer is radiation. Radiation nausea is one of the adverse effects of radiation treatment, yet the drugs to treat it seem to be underused sometimes. Coping with radiation nausea and vomiting can be quite challenging sometimes, but still, an approach that not only combines medical interventions but also lifestyle adjustments is required.

Let’s go through some essential points and discuss a few ways how to deal with radiation nausea.

Radiation therapy

Let’s start from the basics – radiation therapy can induce nausea and vomiting, which can begin during the treatment and continue for many days after the radiation therapy ends.

Radiation nausea is a dangerous side effect that can lower the patient’s quality of life. Between 50% and 80% of people are thought to have nausea and vomiting as a result of radiation. In the course of six to eight weeks, patients receiving this therapy frequently receive up to 40 radiation fractions. Individuals who have radiation sickness from cancer treatment may decline additional treatment or encounter delays, both of which might harm the final result.

Now, let’s discuss everything that you should stick to.

Communication

Open communication with your healthcare team is the first step in dealing with radiation nausea. You have to be open and state everything you’re feeling and, of course, the intensity itself. This is crucial because your medical team is the one to adjust your treatment plan, provide radiation nausea remedies, or recommend any other possible options.

Medication

Timely and consistent use of anti-nausea medications plays a crucial role. You should stick to your prescriptions even if you’re not feeling nauseous at the moment. Consistency is the key to overcoming, minimizing, and preventing all symptoms and effects of radiation nausea.

Hydration

Sipping a glass of water many times a day can help alleviate radiation nausea and vomiting. Staying hydrated is essential, but drinking large quantities at once is not recommended. Try water with lemon slices, herbal teas, electrolyte beverages, and broth. These will help you ease your stomach and keep the balance in it.

Food

Another very important method is to eat small, mindful, and frequent meals. For example, eating small 5 times per day rather than 3 large meals is better. Try to opt for blended and easily digestible food, and eat when you feel less nauseous. Try different textures and mix different flavors to determine what is best for you.

Natural remedies

Ginger has famous anti-nausea properties and is a great natural radiation nausea remedy. Ginger tea, candies, or crackers can relieve radiation nausea. If you’re looking for a natural and drug-free ginger remedy, check out Ginger Drops. Healthcare professionals recommend them due to their nausea-relief properties.

Conclusion

A great way to help your body alleviate radiation nausea is to stay active, adjust your lifestyle, and incorporate dietary plans. Always try to follow the advice from medical professionals, since they have been trained and are experienced in providing the best care possible.

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