It is not simple to go through therapy. Most individuals become very tired and feel unwell after receiving their treatment. If you have gone to Comprehensive Hematology Oncology or any other facility for therapy, you may be familiar with what this is like. Two of the most frequent issues individuals experience after treatment are nausea (feeling sick to your stomach) and fatigue (extreme tiredness).
Let us talk about these side effects in a way that is easy to understand. We will also look at what you can do to feel better at home.
What is Nausea?
Nausea is when your stomach gets upset. You can feel like vomiting, even if you do not vomit. Some individuals vomit, while others merely feel queasy. This can result from receiving therapy at a center like the Infusion Center, Palm Harbor, FL.
Nausea can be intermittent. Sometimes it occurs immediately after therapy. Other times it occurs a few hours or even a day later. Everyone is different. Some experience it slightly, whereas other individuals can struggle to keep food down.
Why Does Therapy Make You Sick?
Therapy kills the bad cells in your body, but it also kills the good cells. That is why it gives you side effects such as nausea and fatigue. Your brain and stomach communicate together to inform you when something is wrong, and that is why you become sick after treatment.
Also, your body becomes weak during therapy. This makes it hard to digest food or move around like you usually do.
What is Fatigue?
Fatigue is being extremely tired even though you rest. It is not just the kind of tired that you feel after a long day. It’s much deeper. The body feels heavy, and maybe even unwilling to talk or get out of bed.
Fatigue is among the most frequent side effects following treatment at centers such as the Infusion Center, Palm Harbor, FL. It lasts for several days or even weeks.
Why Does Therapy Make Me Feel So Tired?
When you undergo treatment, your body expends lots of energy to recover. The drugs utilized during therapy also reduce your red blood cells. This makes you tired and weak.
Some individuals are not able to sleep properly during treatment. Worry, pain, and illness may find it difficult to sleep properly. That too contributes to the fatigue.
How to Handle Nausea After Therapy
Now let us discuss what you can do to feel better when you have nausea. These are little things, but they can actually make a big difference:
Eat Light Foods
Eat little meals. Do not eat a great deal all at one time. Experiment with dry toast, crackers, or plain rice. Spicy, oily, or very sweet foods are best avoided. These will tend to make your stomach feel worse.
Drink Slowly
Drink water, juice, or ginger tea slowly in small sips. Do not gulp. If you drink too quickly, your stomach may feel worse.
Stay Away from Strong Smells
Food smells, fragrances, or even cleaning solutions can aggravate nausea. Attempt to remain in a well-ventilated room or open a window.
Use Ginger
Ginger makes many individuals feel better. You can attempt ginger tea, ginger candies, or even ginger water.
Speak with Your Doctor
If your nausea is too severe, do not remain silent. Physicians can prescribe you medication to prevent the vomiting. Most people feel much better once they have taken these medications.
How to Manage Fatigue After Therapy
Now let us examine how you can manage the lethargy that follows treatment.
Rest Often
Do not exhaust yourself. Your body requires time to recover. Take daytime naps if you feel drowsy.
Move a Little
It may sound odd, but gentle walking will work. Walking around your house or outdoors for 5–10 minutes will be beneficial.
Eat Healthy
Even if you do not want to eat, eat some fruits, vegetables, and protein. Good food makes you strong and aids your recovery.
Drink Water
When you’re exhausted, you may forget to drink water. But drinking water is extremely crucial. Place a water bottle next to your bed or on your chair.
Ask for Help
You don’t need to do everything yourself. Ask family or friends to assist with cooking, cleaning, or even speaking to your doctor. You’re worth it too.
How Long Do These Side Effects Last?
There is no single answer. Some recover in a few days. Others take a few weeks. It will depend on the type of therapy you had, how your body responds, and how much rest you provide yourself.
If your nausea or tiredness is increasing rather than improving, call your doctor. There can be other issues with your health that should be treated.
How to Make Things Easier at Home
There are some things that you can do to make your days more comfortable.
Keep Snacks Within Reach
If you’re too sick to go to the kitchen, keep plain foods or crackers close to your bed.
Wear Loose Clothing
Tight clothing makes you feel worse when you are nauseous. Dress in loose, comfortable clothes that allow you to relax.
Sit Up After Eating
Don’t lie down immediately after eating. Sit up for 30 minutes. This improves the digestion in your stomach and keeps nausea at bay.
Use a Cool Towel
In case you are sweating or feel hot after therapy, place a cool damp towel on your forehead. It can soothe your body and aid in fatigue.
When Should You Call the Doctor?
The following are some signs that indicate you should call your doctor:
- You cannot keep liquids or food down
- You are dizzy or lightheaded
- You have a fever
- You are drowsy or confused all the time
- You have stomach or chest pain
These side effects are not normal. It is wise to seek help early.
Can Anything Prevent Nausea and Fatigue?
Not entirely, but you can reduce the risk. Attempt to eat prior to therapy if your physician indicates that it is all right. Take anti-nausea medications as directed. Rest prior to and subsequent to treatment. Take plenty of fluids prior to arriving at the Infusion Center, Palm Harbor, FL.
Listen to your body. If you are tired, rest. You are not lazy. You are healing.
Take Care of Your Mind Too
Being sick all the time can make you sad or anxious. That is okay. You are not alone. Talk to someone you trust. It may be a friend, family member, or a counselor. Many people feel frustrated or afraid during treatment. Talking about your thoughts helps.
Stay Positive, One Day at a Time
Recovery takes time. Do not rush it. Some days will be better than others. Take it one step at a time. Celebrate small wins, like getting out of bed or eating a full meal.
You’re doing the best you can. Your body is working hard, and so are you.
You are not alone
If you’ve been to Comprehensive Hematology Oncology, be assured that their staff is there for you. Nurses to physicians, a whole lot of individuals are collaborating to make you feel better. You simply need to call out.
You are stronger than you realize. And if you ever find yourself lost, exhausted, or uncertain, it is acceptable to seek assistance.
Contact Us
Are you or someone you love in therapy and seeking help? We are here for you. If you need more information or would like to talk to someone, call us. We are always happy to listen and assist you. Call Comprehensive Hematology Oncology today. Let us make you feel a little better each and every day.