10
10 ways to prepare for chemotherapy for MBC
1.
Pack a
chemo bag.
2.
Dress comfortably.
5.
Invite a friend.
6.
Ask for help at home.
7.
Plan transportation and parking.
8.
Stock up on medications to help with side effects.
3.
Meal prep.
4.
Get enough sleep.
Pack a chemo bag
Your chemo bag may include warm clothes, a pillow, a blanket, snacks, water, hand sanitizer, entertainment (like books, games, or movies), chargers for your phone or tablet, and photos of loved ones.
Dress comfortably
Wear loose clothing with layers, and consider bringing warm socks and a hat. You may alternate between being hot and cold during chemo, so it’s a good idea to be prepared for both scenarios.
Meal prep
Prepare nutritious meals and drinks ahead of time. In the first few days after chemotherapy, you may find yourself too tired to cook or pick up groceries. You’ll need extra calories to boost your energy, so prep high-calorie meals that include healthy fats like nuts, avocados,
and olive oil.
Get enough sleep
A good night’s sleep can help you feel more rested, lower your stress levels, and help you recover more quickly.
Invite a friend
Bring along a good friend to give
you support and encouragement. They can help by taking notes, writing down medication instructions, and driving you to and from your appointment. A friend may also help enforce a sense of normalcy
and keep your spirits up.
Ask for help
at home
Ask a friend or family member to help you out at home. Try to be specific about your needs. Examples include cooking meals, doing laundry, running errands, taking care of pets, or picking up your kids from school.
Plan transportation and parking
Plan out your route to the chemotherapy clinic or hospital in advance to reduce your chances of getting lost or arriving late. You may also want to ask about parking. If you can’t find a ride, the American Cancer Society offers transportation assistance to get you safely to your chemo session.
Stock up on medications to help with side effects
Have anti-nausea medications available at home so you don’t have to go out to buy them. Ginger or peppermint tea may also be useful. Be sure to ask your doctor about any prescriptions you should fill in advance.
9.
Get a dental
checkup.
Get a dental checkup
Consider seeing a dentist 1 month or so before starting chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can cause problems with your teeth and gums, the lining of your mouth, and your salivary glands. You’re also more likely to get an infection if your teeth and gums aren’t healthy.
10
ways to prepare for chemotherapy for MBC
10.
Reduce
stress.
Reduce stress
Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help ease symptoms of anxiety. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with these techniques in advance. If possible, establish a daily stress-relief routine prior
to your first chemo appointment.
9.
Get a dental checkup
10.
Reduce stress
GET A DENTAL CHECKUP
Consider seeing a dentist 1 month or so before starting chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can cause problems with your teeth and gums, the lining of your mouth, and your salivary glands. You’re also more likely to get an infection if your teeth and gums aren’t healthy.
REDUCE STRESS
Yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can help ease symptoms of anxiety. It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with these techniques in advance. If possible, establish a daily stress-relief routine prior to your first chemo appointment.
