Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects

Managing Chemotherapy Side Effects

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of cancer therapy. Nausea is the unpleasant feeling of being queasy, or as if you might vomit. Vomiting is the actual act of bringing up the contents of your stomach. Nausea can lead to vomiting, and sometimes they occur together, but they can also happen independently. 'Retching' refers to the urge to vomit when nothing comes out.

Nausea and vomiting can affect the patient's quality of life and worsen the overall health by causing anorexia, dehydration, and, in severe cases, discontinuation of treatment.

Causes of Nausea and Vomiting During Cancer Treatment

Causes of nausea and vomiting during cancer treatment are:

  • Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, target therapy, or immunotherapy. The intravenous route and higher doses are more likely to cause a severe and rapid sensation of nausea.
  • Cancers of the brain and abdomen
  • As a side effect of other medications given during treatment, for example, painkillers.
  • Medications given for other health problems
  • Intestinal obstruction
  • Infection
  • Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Constipation

Treatment Options for Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea

For most people, nausea and vomiting can be controlled with medicines and other treatments that don't include medicines. Antiemetics are the first line of treatment and should be consumed at the first hint of nausea.

Let's look at the natural solutions to help with the problem.

Natural Remedies for Nausea Relief

Managing Smell-Triggered Nausea

If nausea is triggered by smell, try the following tips:

  • Avoid foods and drinks with a strong smell. Ask a family member to prepare cooked food for you.
  • Eat in a cool, airy space where bothersome smells are minimal.
  • After each meal, sit upright and rest quietly for at least an hour.
  • Choose eating times that work best for your body. Some people feel better with a light snack before treatment, while others prefer not to eat for a while beforehand.

Diet Tips for Managing Nausea and Preventing Dehydration

Try the following tips to manage nausea to ensure you eat and drink better during cancer treatment and avoid dehydration:

  • Sip liquids slowly throughout the day. Cold, clear liquids may be the easiest on your stomach. (Clear liquids are those you can see through, such as ginger ale, apple juice, soup broth, herbal tea, etc.)
  • Eat small snacks and meals several times a day. If your stomach is empty, your nausea might be worse.
  • Eat bland foods that are easy on your stomach, such as crackers, toast, clear broth, plain yoghurt, or sherbet.
  • Eat something light like pretzels or crackers with medicines unless you have been told to take them on an empty stomach.
  • Sour foods, such as sour candy, pickles, lemons, or limes, might help with nausea for some people.
  • Eat foods when they are cool or at room temperature, so their smell isn't as strong.
  • Try popsicles or gelatin.
  • Suck on hard candy with pleasant smells, such as lemon drops or mints, to help get rid of bad tastes.
  • Try small amounts of foods high in calories that are easy to eat (such as pudding, ice cream, sherbets, yoghurt, and milkshakes).
  • Avoid fried, spicy, or greasy foods.

CBD Oil and Medical Cannabis for Nausea Relief

Medical cannabis or CBD oil can be used as a natural solution that helps with managing common side effects of cancer treatment such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and pain.

Clinical Research on CBD for Chemotherapy Side Effects

Some studies show that using cannabinoids—CBD along with THC—may help ease chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting, particularly when usual anti-nausea medicines don't provide enough relief. In one well-designed clinical trial, patients who received an oral formulation containing both THC and CBD had better control of their symptoms than those given a placebo. The group taking the cannabinoid extract saw their rate of "complete response" (no vomiting and no need for extra medication) increase from about 8% to roughly 24%.

Always consult your oncologist before including medical cannabis in your treatment regime to avoid unwanted drug interactions.

About Qurist: Natural CBD Solutions for Cancer Patients

Qurist understands the value of a natural approach to managing anorexia, nausea and pain during cancer treatment.

Why Choose Qurist:

  • Natural Solutions: Premium CBD products that may support appetite loss and pain.
  • Quality Standards: Every product tested for purity and potency
  • Holistic Approach: Supporting multiple natural pathways to wellness
  • Education Focused: Honest information about natural health options
  • Non-Habit Forming: Plant-based support without dependency concerns

Used thoughtfully and with medical guidance, CBD oil can be a supportive tool to help patients regain comfort, reduce distressing symptoms, and stay better nourished through their treatment journey.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting a CBD supplement. CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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