The Importance of Staying Hydrated During Your Cancer Treatment

December 28th, 2022 | Cancer

Helping Your Body Heal During Treatment

Hydration is the key to a healthy life. Drinking plenty of water becomes even more important when your body is going through the difficult and demanding process of cancer treatment. Taking care of your health during cancer treatment is vital to your recovery and important for your overall wellness. Here is why staying hydrated during your cancer treatment is so important.

Avoid Dehydration

One of the major causes of hospitalization during cancer treatment is dehydration. With all of the side effects of cancer treatment, your body will need plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated. Dehydration can cause extreme fatigue and body pains. Not drinking enough water can increase the amount of time you will need for recovery and can even compromise your treatment.

Dehydration is also the major cause of constipation during cancer treatment. Constipation can quickly become painful and cause other health problems. Constipation can also cause bacteria to build up in your intestines which can lead to an infection. Drinking plenty of water during your cancer treatment can keep you regular and healthy.

Reduce the Side Effects of Treatment

Cancer treatment is often accompanied by a variety of side effects that can leave you feeling exhausted and terrible. Staying hydrated can help you manage feelings of nausea and discomfort that come with treatment. Your body is dealing with harsh chemicals and complicated processes that can leave you feeling sick to your stomach. Water is a great way to flush toxins and reduce feelings of nausea. Other major side effects of cancer treatment are exhaustion, weakness, and general aches and pains. Staying hydrated will help you keep your muscles fueled making you more resistant to these side effects.

Vomiting and diarrhea are also common side effects of cancer treatment. Water can reduce the frequency at which these side effects occur. Staying hydrated can also keep you from becoming dehydrated after vomiting or diarrhea. The more water you drink the less detrimental these side effects will be to your overall health. Dehydration can lead to severe fatigue and even cause you to become hospitalized.

Feed your Cells

Feeding your body with fluids is the only way to help your cells get the nutrients they need to stay healthy. During cancer, your cells need to stay healthy to help you fight your illness. Drinking plenty of water is a great way to keep your cells healthy and in fighting shape. Healthy cells with plenty of nutrients can make recovery easier after your cancer treatment.

Keep Your Bladder Healthy

During cancer treatment, your bladder can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria that may negatively affect your recovery and make you sick. Drinking plenty of water can help flush harmful bacteria out of your bladder and prevent illness. Dehydration is common during cancer treatment and your body may not be able to regulate fluids well enough to clear out your bladder if you do not drink plenty of water regularly.