Having an idea of what to expect before, during, and after Chemotherapy can help reduce anxiety and boost hope for a full recovery.

A registered nurse and certified oncology nurse navigator working at Regional Medical Center San Jose in California, Jennifer Oglesby, RN, OCN, was interviewed to shed light on the chemotherapy process and the best ways to get ready for it.

How Chemotherapy Works

Chemotherapy refers to the administration of drugs through an IV, injection, or orally to inhibit or halt the growth of cancer cells. Some of the side effects you read about, such as nausea, vomiting, exhaustion, and hair loss, are caused by the chemotherapy's killing of healthy cells together with cancer cells.

According to Oglesby, the duration and intensity of chemotherapy Treatment are determined by the patient's cancer kind and the physician's assessment of the patient's prognosis. Chemotherapy is often administered intravenously (IV) or intramuscularly (IM) at a hospital or outpatient clinic over the course of several weeks or months.

Preparing for Your First Visit

It's normal to feel anxious and overwhelmed by your first chemotherapy treatment. However, Oglesby suggests having a friend or colleague along to keep you company, assist you in taking notes, and aid in the processing of new information.

It's also crucial to maintain order. Oglesby recommends keeping track of your paperwork and appointments in a binder and calendar, including those for chemotherapy, blood tests, radiation, and any future procedures.

What to Bring to Treatment

Dress comfortably, and consider wearing a shirt with short sleeves or buttons to facilitate IV access.

In addition, remember to bring the following:

• Water and healthy snacks. Oglesby stresses the importance of staying hydrated throughout chemotherapy. To combat the dehydration effects of chemotherapy, water is your best bet. Since chemotherapy might decrease your immune system, it's crucial to eat nutrient-dense foods to keep your energy up and guard against infection. Find out from your medical staff what kinds of food you can eat while undergoing treatment.
• Something to do. It's important to come prepared with something to do during the many hours you may need to spend at the hospital for treatment. Bring something to occupy your time, be it a tablet computer, headphones, music, or books and periodicals to read.
• Blanket and a travel pillow. Bring a blanket and pillow to the hospital with you as certain treatment rooms can be chilly and some IV fluids can amplify the feeling of cold.

Chemotherapy Side Effects

• Fatigue. Oglesby estimates that 90% of patients report feeling tired. She suggests paying attention to your body if you're feeling tired. Rest when you need to, but keep your normal routine and activities going as much as you can. Other strategies to combat weariness may be recommended by your healthcare provider, so don't hesitate to inquire.
• Nausea. Usually, a doctor or nurse will give you advice on how to avoid feeling sick. Oglesby recommends breaking up your day's eating into six or seven smaller meals rather than three large ones. And avoid items that are too hot, too fatty, or too greasy. The doctor will also give you medication that may be of use to you.
• Hair Loss. According to Oglesby, this is among chemotherapy's most catastrophic potential side effects. "Many patients have to shave their head parties,'" she notes, "where friends and family members all shave their heads in solidarity with the patient as he or she undergoes therapy." In addition, the American Cancer Society provides services like 'Look Good Feel Better,' where a certified beauty expert instructs participants on how to wear wigs and hairpieces, take care of their skin, and apply makeup in preparation for chemotherapy treatments.

Neutropenia, a disorder characterized by a decrease in white blood cells, may develop as a side effect of chemotherapy, reducing the body's ability to fight infections. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop a fever; instructions on what to do in this situation will be provided by your healthcare team during your initial appointment.

Oglesby adds, "it's also crucial following... treatment to wash your hands more regularly," as well as avoid close contact with someone who may be ill.

In the 7-14 days following treatment, when you are at a higher risk of infection, this is of utmost importance.

How Friends and Family Can Help

It can be difficult to go through chemotherapy, but having support from loved ones can help ease the burden. Don't be shy about accepting assistance when it's offered.

When asked how they can help, tell loved ones to bring over food, hang around, or pitch in where they can.

Just be there for them," Oglesby urges. Be there as a listening ear and a confidant for those who need it.

And most of all, please refrain from rehashing tired cancer scare tales.

The patients already have plenty to worry about. Instead of scaring them more, she advises that you adopt a more upbeat tone. To emphasize that cancer can be healed and people can go on to lead healthy lives is essential to me.