Chemotherapy can be an intimidating experience even to those who have been through it multiple times. It’s understandable if you’re apprehensive about your first round. However, you may gain some peace of mind and get better rest afterward by checking off a list of preparation tasks.

5 Items for Your First Chemotherapy Treatment To-Do List

1. Have a Light Meal

Since chemotherapy tends to slow down your digestive system, have a healthy but light meal two or three hours beforehand. Emphasize foods with fiber, if possible, to help you digest everything. Also, stay well-hydrated with water and sports drinks, but don’t drink caffeine.

2. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask an oncology specialist or other hospital staff members as many questions as you’d like before the treatment begins. Find out details about the drugs being used. Request an analysis of the results of your complete blood test, which measures your blood cell count and platelet levels before the treatment. Also, ask about the best way to track and report your side effects so that serious problems can be monitored and addressed.

3. Get Help

Chemotherapy is an intense treatment, so arrange a ride home from the hospital. It helps if they’re present during the treatment itself so that they can offer emotional support, too. Ask a loved one to help you with cooking, cleaning, shopping, running errands, and caring for children and pets while you’re recovering, as well.

4. Maintain Good Hygiene & Healthy Habits

Because of the ways that chemotherapy can affect your entire body, get ready to pay extra attention to it. Stay hydrated and eat healthy meals and snacks frequently, especially anything high in protein, fiber, or nutrients that boost the immune system, like vitamin C. Plan to visit the dentist every few months to optimize your oral health and take care of mouth sores.

Have someone help you keep the laundry clean from your sweat or other bodily fluids that may contain the chemotherapy drugs, and dispose of your waste carefully, too. Make sure you have excellent contraception to guard against pregnancy since chemotherapy can cause birth defects.

5. Take Time Off

Businesses are required to give you time off to recover from chemotherapy, whether it takes days or weeks. Avoid social events or other physically demanding activities for at least a few days, as well. Even if you’re tempted to return to your normal life quickly, your body needs rest.

From Mamou to Eunice, Savoy Medical Center is dedicated to helping residents of Louisiana recover and feel well no matter how many chemotherapy treatments they receive. As a rehabilitation and cancer center with decades of experience, they offer the most innovative, comprehensive, and up-to-date care available for cancer patients, including physical therapy. Learn more about their personalized treatment services today by calling them at (337) 468-5261 or checking out their website.