What can I do to prevent chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting?

In addition to the medicines your healthcare team gives you, you can take steps to lower your risk of nausea and vomiting. For example:

• Eat small meals. Have small meals throughout the day rather than eating fewer, larger meals. If possible, don't skip meals. Eating a light meal a few hours before treatment also may help.

• Eat what appeals to you. But it's best to avoid foods that are sweet, fried or fatty. Cool foods also may smell better and make you less nauseated.

  Cook and freeze meals before treatment so you don't have to cook when you're not feeling well. Or have someone else cook for you.

• Drink lots of fluids. Try cool beverages such as water, unsweetened fruit juices, tea or ginger ale that's lost its carbonation. It may help to drink small amounts throughout the day instead of larger drinks less often.
• Avoid unpleasant smells. Pay attention to smells that trigger nausea for you and avoid bad smells. Fresh air may help.
• Make yourself comfortable. Rest after eating. But don't lie flat for a couple of hours. Try wearing loose clothing and keep busy with other activities.
• Use relaxation techniques. Try meditation and deep breathing.
• Consider complementary therapies. Examples include acupuncture and aromatherapy. They may help you feel better when used along with your anti-nausea medicines. Tell your healthcare team if you're interested in trying these therapies. They may be able to suggest someone who works with people getting cancer treatments.

These self-care measures may help prevent nausea and vomiting. But they can't take the place of anti-nausea medicines.

If you begin feeling nauseated despite anti-nausea medicines, call your healthcare team. They may prescribe additional medicines. Your treatment will depend on what's causing your symptoms.