Preparing for chemotherapy and immunotherapy
Preparing for chemotherapy and immunotherapy
Here are some helpful pointers and tips to help you prepare for your chemotherapy or immunotherapy:
Practical preparations
- Remain active if you can, physical activity can help with side effects, the ability to cope with treatment and your mental health
- Stay well hydrated, water is best but aim for around 1.5-2L fluid a day (if you are very active you may need more)
- Aim to maintain your weight, you don’t need to drastically change your diet but aim to ensure you get enough calories so you’re not losing weight
- Plan some meals in advance that are easy to prepare or can be kept in the freezer (tiredness is common and you may not want to cook)
- If you think you will need help with household chores, ask if family can help, or arrange a cleaner (depending on your age, income, and where you live, you may be able to receive government help)
- If you are still working and plan to continue, speak with your employer about options for flexible working or time off
- Be sure to work out how you will get to and from your treatment, you may want someone to collect you on your first session (although many patients drive themselves). If you intend to drive to your appointment it is a good idea to check if and where you can park for the day
- If you have children, consider arranging any support that you may need to help look after them
- If you are a smoker, now is the time to think whether you can quit. If you have decided to quit speak with your healthcare team about resources and support that is available
- Treatment may affect your fertility, so if you are considering having children do speak to your team about this as far in advance of starting treatment as possible
Emotional preparations
It’s quite normal to feel anxious and worried ahead of starting treatment (usually these feelings lessen after you experienced your first cycle). It is important to know that many people also feel depressed, so here are some additional pointers:
- Talk to your family and friends about how you are feeling (they may be able to help if you’re are worrying about practical issues)
- Psychological support may be available at your hospital, if not speak to your family doctor for a referral if you feel persistently anxious or low in mood
- Support groups specific to your type of cancer may be available, either online or in person.
- Some find it useful to speak to others going through the same thing
Medical preparations
- Remember to take all your pre-medications as prescribed ahead of your chemotherapy or immunotherapy
- Check you have supportive medication such as anti-sickness, laxatives, mouthwashes or whether you will be given them at your first cycle
- Continue to take your own regular medication unless you have been told otherwise
- If you are planning to take supplements or vitamins check with your doctor that these are ok to have with your treatment
- Make sure you have attended your blood tests or scans that may be required ahead of your treatment
- If you are diabetic, ask your doctor if you will need steroids with your treatment as these may affect your sugar levels (and if so, do have a plan for if your sugar levels are high)
- Know who to contact if you are unwell and what to do out of routine working hours, some services have a 24-hour advice line, but others won’t
- Check you have a thermometer, that it is working, and that you know how to use it correctly
What to bring on the day
- Water bottle
- Snacks although most units will provide a light lunch or refreshments
- Something to keep you occupied (like sudoku, crosswords, book, tablet computer, headphones)
- Your mobile phone
- Any regular tablets you normally need
- Wear comfortable clothing, bring a blanket if you like
Don’t be afraid to check with your team on any additional local advice they may be able to provide.
October 2022
Ms Sophie Robson does not have any disclosures to report.