Overview
Chemotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs given either orally or intravenously. It works by destroying the cancer cells which are rapidly dividing cells. Nausea and vomiting is a common side effect of chemotherapy treatment. Nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy can occur either acutely within the first 24 hours of the treatment or delayed which starts after 24 hours of the treatment. Nausea and vomiting are triggered due to past chemo experience or a breakthrough where it happens after preventative medications are given. The occurrence of these symptoms depends on various factors such as the type of chemotherapy drugs given, the dosage of the drugs, duration of the treatment, frequency of drugs given and individual differences. To prevent or stop nausea and vomiting due to chemotherapy, medications such as antiemetics are given. Besides that, drinking plenty of fluids, eating well and avoiding overeating and staying calm and relaxed during the treatment may help to avoid nausea and vomiting.
