Tips For Staying Comfortable During Your Chemotherapy Infusion

If you are feeling apprehensive about your upcoming chemotherapy infusion treatments, then you are certainly not alone. While it is natural to feel uneasy about these life-saving treatments, you can rest assured knowing that there are many things you can do to make the experience a lot easier. To this end, here are some tips for staying comfortable during your upcoming chemotherapy treatments:

Buy Yourself a Large Bag to Carry Your Comfort Supplies to Your Appointments

Since your chemo-infusion appointments will last for a few hours, it is important that you take along some comfort items to help you pass the time. You will need somewhere to store your supplies, so you should purchase or repurpose a large canvas bag or backpack for this purpose. You can refill the bag before each appointment and will always know that you brought along everything that you need to the infusion center.

Pack Entertainment Items in Your Chemo Bag

Anytime you are stuck in a medical setting for an extended period of time it is going to get boring. Bringing along things to entertain you while you are at the infusion center is a must. Some suggested items to bring include:

• books and magazines
• a tablet or e-reader
• an iPod and headphones

In addition, you might also want to pack an adult coloring book and some colored pencils or a crossword puzzle book.

Pack Some Chemo-Friendly Snacks and Drinks

Since you will not be able to walk around during your chemotherapy infusion treatments, you should bring along some food and drinks in case you get hungry or thirsty. Some good options include:

• bottled water
• saltine crackers
• bananas
• hard candy
• gum

In addition to the above list, you should consider taking a package of mints or hard mint candies with you to your treatments. Chemotherapy drugs can sometimes cause you to have a dry mouth or a bad taste in your mouth. Sucking on mints is the best way to get rid of this unwanted side-effect of the treatment.

Nourish Your Body Before Leaving Home

Finally, before leaving your home, you should eat a small meal, drink a large glass of water, and dress in comfortable clothing. The food will help you feel strong during the treatment and helps to stave off nausea. The water will keep you hydrated which will help you feel better the day after your treatment. And, wearing comfortable clothes is a must because your appointment may last for many hours. 

For more information, talk to a professional like Oncology MDS.