Preparing For Chemo? 4 Tips To Help Keep You Comfortable
Posted on: 6 September 2017
Chemotherapy isn't easy. In fact, it might just be the most difficult experience you'll ever go through. If you're going to be heading to the hospital for chemo treatment, you'll want to be as comfortable as possible. Taking a few simple steps can make the treatment more bearable. Follow these simple tips to help make your treatment a bit more comfortable.
Don't Go It Alone
If you haven't started your chemo treatments yet, you might think that it's something that you want to do alone. Don't try it. You're going to want a familiar face by your side throughout the treatment. Not only will they keep you company, they'll be able to go on water runs for you and fluff your pillow. They'll also be able to act as designated driver once treatment is over. You're not going to feel like driving after a day of chemotherapy. If you have numerous people who want to volunteer to be your chemo-buddy, set up a schedule and let them rotate their turns. That way, you get a variety of buddies, and everyone gets a chance to be with you.
Bring Plenty of Sweets
You're going to lose your energy during chemo, and your blood sugar level is going to take a dip. You might even get a little hungry, but you probably won't feel like eating. That's where a bag full of hard candy will come in handy. Before you leave for chemo, pack a bag of your favorite hard candies. They'll help keep your mouth moist, calm your nausea, and settle your hunger pangs.
Invest in a Cold Cap
During chemo, it's quite common to lose your hair. Hair loss is associated with the chemicals used during chemo, as well as the fevers you may get during treatment. If you're worried about hair loss, it's time to invest in a cold cap. Cold caps help keep your head cool to prevent hair loss. However, they're also beneficial in combating the hot flashes you might experience during chemo. The opposite side of heat flashes are the chills, which you might also get. So be sure to pack a soft blanket.
Pack Some Headphones
While you're undergoing chemotherapy, it can be relaxing to take a break from the noise and distractions around you. To help you get that much-needed break, pack your headphones, and bring your smartphone along. You'll be able to listen to music, watch a movie, or listen to an audio book while you're undergoing treatment. Make sure everyone knows that when your headphones are on, you don't want to be disturbed.
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