Snacks. Also, learn how to avoid errors in your explanation of benefits. Patients often say they get cold during chemo so it helps to cuddle up with a blanket. A deck of cards or your favorite board game. Your neighborhood bookstore likely has many options, some of which may be just the right fit for your friend. American Cancer Society. I use a formula to pack The Ex's snack bag (all in small portions): At least 1 kind of fruit, 2 proteins, choice of carbs, and 1 thing different, tasty and fun. Don't worry about entertaining your friend—she is there to support you in whatever way helps you the most. You may get hungry during treatment – especially if you travel a long way or have to spend a lot of time having or waiting for treatment. Popsicles or ice cubes to snack on can help if mouth … Some people bring ginger ale or other forms of ginger since ginger may be of some help with chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. Many people find that sucking on hard candies helps as well. Don't assume that, if clinics are under the same roof, they will all be covered under your plan. The personal items you wish to pack in your tote will be different for everybody, but a few things to consider include: Not everyone wants a photo to remember chemotherapy by, but many people enjoy having a picture during chemo with one of the chemotherapy nurses. You may develop an aversion to hospital food and not want anything they have to offer. If you have questions about MD Anderson’s appointment process, our Friendships often deepen in a setting such as this, when you are vulnerable and let down your proverbial walls more than in your precancer days. You are hooked up to an IV in the infusion clinic so you can't load the dishwasher or straighten the garage. Read our, Medically reviewed by Yasmine S. Ali, MD, MSCI, Verywell Health uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Yet in some ways, if making an effort to do so, it can be a time to take advantage of "free" moments with loved ones when you simply can't be doing anything else. A Friend. Learn about our graduate medical education residency and fellowship opportunities. So make sure you drink plenty of water. Make sure you have your insurance card with you, or at least the name of your insurance company and group and identification numbers. Limiting processed foods and red meats can help ward off cancer risk. Bring a few good books with you for chemotherapy (a few for yourself and a few for your friend). You may want to ask your friend to bring a few as well, perhaps asking her to bring two of her favorites from the past few years. Sometimes all you need is a simple “You can do this.” Because you can. 3. Though medications have worked wonders in reducing nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, having a change of clothes just in case is a good idea. It doesn't always make sense. Music: While some patients find the hum of the infusion machines relaxing, others find it aggravating. If you will have an IV in your arm, think of how that will work with the sleeve on that arm., It may seem silly to post a reminder to bring a pen to chemotherapy, but we've known more than one person who couldn't write or take notes about what their oncologist said because they didn't have a pen. Whether it's you or your loved one who will be having chemotherapy, going through this list will help ensure that you have the documents you need to help the session go smoothly and that you will be entertained through your session without having to cope with boredom. Journal and electronics. If you insist on open-toed shoes, bring socks just in case. Think of the IV when you choose your clothing. Chemotherapy sessions can sometimes be long, and for most people, you will have several infusions. So ask your favorite pal to tag along, hold your hand, talk and, most importantly, listen. He is an associate professor of clinical medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College and attending physician in the Department of Hematology Oncology at the New York Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. Due to our response to COVID-19, all blood donations at MD Anderson Make sure to find a bag that allows you to express yourself. Since many people receive chemotherapy at the cancer clinic or treatment center where they see their oncologist and other providers, they often assume that their insurance information is "in the system.". Not only does writing pass the time and take your mind off of what is flowing through the IV tubing, but it records feelings that you can reflect on later on in your journey. You may wish to seek out some of the cards sold by cancer advocates to raise money for cancer research. This is especially important if you will be having medical care for your cancer at different locations, for example, some people see an oncologist at a cancer center in one location and then return home to have chemotherapy at their local clinic or hospital. 4 Bringing your own … By bringing the things you know you like to eat, you won’t have to stop to get food or rely on the hospital or treatment center food… But if you arrive at your infusion center you can not only make the most of this time but can spend it enjoying the presence of your loved one as well. (Of course, they could have simply asked, but didn't want to bother the doctor.). Choose from 12 allied health programs at School of Health Professions. While most oncologists and cancer clinics keep electronic medical records, it's still a good idea to keep a copy of your medical records for yourself. Nausea and vomiting (PDQ). Novels can take you out of your current situation and allow you to be someone else for a short while, someone who is not going through chemotherapy. A sentence or two alone will carry the message that you are grateful. It seems we all have important numbers programmed in our phones these days, but bringing your directory helps to make sure you have the numbers you need. Reports of 'growth' in survivors of non-small cell lung cancer and healthy controls: what is the value-added by the cancer experience? Advice from other patients on preparing for chemotherapy. Your favorite snacks: You may get hungry. So I decided to bring everything. Fruits: Fruits are good for health and are rich in antioxidants. Socks and/or close-toed shoes: The hospital or clinic will be chilly. Your gift will help support our mission to end cancer and make a difference in the lives of our patients. © 2021 The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. As far as suggestions, consider skipping the cancer books and instead bring an inspirational book and a good novel. 2. If you forget your blanket, ask one of MD Anderson’s volunteers in blue jackets. Maybe. Looking at pictures of children and grandchildren being active may help you feel like life is a bit more normal. Drink beverages such as diluted fruit juice, milk, buttermilk, lemonade, ginger ale or sports drinks. You may want to write out cards or letters. You may also want to work on your cancer journal. So, it helps to wear comfortable clothes. On chemo days, we try keep snacks and meals light. Almonds, resins, cashew nuts and walnuts are very essential for … Psychooncology. In the process, I’ve become an expert on what to bring to chemo and what to leave at home. Cancer changes our social network, and you may wish to call friends who aren't on speed dial but play a special role in your life. As noted earlier, many people with cancer find they are often cold, though hormonal therapies can cause hot flashes at the same time. Before chemotherapy, check to make sure in the infusion center where you will receive chemo is covered under your plan. They’re likely to have a warm blanket for you. And I felt overwhelmed when my doctor said I needed chemotherapy. Health Professional Version. Opt for lean proteins like eggs, fish, and chicken. Ginger-mechanism of action in chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: A review. Snacks. Sometimes writing just one thank you note can help lessen the stress of feeling overwhelmed with the need to write thank you notes to all of the people who have been helping you. Eating adequate amounts of calories and protein is also important during chemotherapy. Chemo brain. Or, bring magazines and catch up on the latest celebrity drama, who’s dating whom and who wore it best. 2013;22(10):2214-9. doi:10.1002/pon.3281. American Society of Clinical Oncology. Dip pretzels in peanut butter. … After treatment, eat a balanced diet and include a variety of healthy foods. Our personalized portal helps you refer your patients and communicate with their MD Anderson care team. The worst foods to eat during chemotherapy. Consider bringing these toiletries to chemo treatment in case … Other ways in which journaling is useful include: And one extra benefit is that journaling has been found to help with chemobrain, those annoying cognitive changes that result in losing your car keys more easily than before.. Candy or mints: Chemo can cause dry mouth and nausea, as well as an unpleasant taste in … The American Cancer Society and the American Institute for Cancer Research offer recommendations for healthy diet, including foods … Sometimes the best escape is lying back and watching a silly movie. If that's the case with your center, be sure to take light snacks and PLENTY of water and beverages with you -- I brought a cooler with me each time. One survivor's favorite was the game Authors, which is essentially Go Fish using authors and great books. Doru Paul, MD, is triple board-certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine. Your toothbrush (especially if you are using a soft toothbrush due to chemotherapy), A scarf or hat when you have no hair (it gets cold), Your medications (make sure to bring along any vitamins, as well as herbal or nutritional supplements you have been using). Health Professional Version. You will want to be able to write down any instructions for after chemotherapy, such as symptoms to watch for, and when to call. So don’t leave home without your headphones and favorite playlists. Chemotherapy is a good time to develop friendships, but you will likely feel tired and want a chance to relax. There are … information page may be the best place to start. Take a look at the foods below and if you are struggling with nausea, consider giving them a try. It also makes you feel more comfortable … Choosing a bag to pack your items in can be fun. Studies tell us that many people with cancer experience posttraumatic growth, that is, positive changes in their lives when they face cancer. It may be hard to think of the cancer experience being positive – and certainly, nobody would go through cancer to change in positive ways – but journaling can help you see and record the silver linings in cancer treatment. If you forget to pack these, many hospital gift shops carry them. It seems everyone we talk to says the same thing: "Cancer broke my thermostat." Dressing in layers can help, but dressing in lightweight and comfortable clothing, and then wrapping up in a soft new blanket brings a touch of home to a place that feels very far from home. Nutritionists usually recommend carrots in every diet plan for cancer patients. Pack a bucket or a plastic bag in your car just in case. How to get ready for your first chemotherapy. 5. Updated October 30, 2019. Your friends may actually thank you for allowing them to join you! This item you can't pack in your tote, but inviting a friend or loved one to join you for your … Board games or mind games: Pass the time by playing board games or puzzles. Foods to Eat After Chemotherapy How Chemo Affects Your Body You might not feel hungry when you're having chemotherapy, but it’s important you keep eating well. Some people have chosen to bring a different friend with them to each of their chemotherapy sessions. Your gift will help make a tremendous difference. Having a pen you enjoy writing with is one easy step towards writing more letters and recording your journey. We need no longer wait until we get home or can get to a library to research medical topics we want to know more about. The Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center provides cancer risk assessment, screening and diagnostic services. As part of our mission to eliminate cancer, MD Anderson researchers conduct hundreds of clinical trials to test new treatments for both common and rare cancers. If you don't have copies of your visits and imaging and lab studies, learn how to get copies of your medical records. If you still hesitate to bother your friends, don't. Suck on ice chips, popsicles, or frozen fruit. Unlike a phone, you can write a little description about the person to stimulate your memory when you look back later. Have you ever slept on a clinic or hospital pillow? Some people go to one hospital for surgery, another for chemotherapy, and yet a third for radiation therapy. Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Comfortable clothes: Chemo can last anywhere from one to eight hours and may involve overnight hospital stays. 6. These devices allow us to communicate via our social networks, whether that is via Facebook, Instagram, one of the cancer communities, or more. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. Lip balm will help soothe the most cracked smile. We can't emphasize this step enough. It might even help keep your mind sharp and alleviate chemobrain. How Can You Manage and Cope With Oral Cancer? There may even be time for Monopoly. 9. Consider keeping a supply of specific candies that help your nausea, such as lemon drops, ginger chews, and hard candy. Remember to bring headphones to respect other patients.. Most infusion centers provide snacks and beverages, but if there is a snack you particularly like, pack it. … Pack a variety of your favorite snacks. Add powdered creamer or dry milk powder to hot cocoa, milkshakes, hot cereal, gravy, sauces, meatloaf, cream soups or … Chemotherapy treatment days can be long and emotional. My #1 recommendation for after chemo is … I didn’t know what to expect or what to pack. Bringing a few games can pass the time and generate some laughs during chemo. While some people experience diarrhea with chemo, … Specialized Programs of Research Excellence (SPORE) Grants, Prevention & Personalized Risk Assessment, Office of Clinical Research Administration, Comparative Effectiveness Training (CERTaIN), Post Graduate Fellowship in Oncology Nursing, Professional Student Nurse Extern Programs, large cell neuroendocrine cervical cancer. 1. Cereal and milk (try Lactaid® milk, or Soy milk, if lactose intolerant) Chicken rice soup with saltine crackers During chemotherapy take a small, bland snack with you. Unpasteurized dairy. Marx W, Ried K, Mccarthy AL, et al. Some chemotherapy medications cause cold intolerance, so avoid this if you have been … That's not always the case, and some infusion centers bill separately from other visits. 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