Hi all,
I’m sure this may have been asked before but can anyone recommend anything that they have bought to reduce side effects, taken with them to chemo to pass the time/make them more comfortable, comforting/helpful items to have at home post chemo etc
Many thanks!
Download a few Netflix to shows you can watch. Wi-Fi/internet doesn’t always work in hospitals so good to have a backup of something to watch.
Book/magazine.
Flask of tea and snacks.
If using cold cap bring water spray bottle and conditioner, fabric hair band to cover forehead and ears, scarf, electric hot water bottle.
Keep a diary of everything. It’s a good distraction and great to go back to compare what happened on previous cycles. You won’t remember from cycle to cycle. Ie. Diet, Energy levels, sleep, exercise, bowel movements, pains, nausea, etc.
Good luck with it. It’s very daunting before you start but you can do it.
Hi @bluedime82 , like @RainyDay7 I kept a diary, particularly for keeping track of all the meds you have to take at home. Your brain will probably be a bit fuzzy, so it’s definitely best to write down how you’re feeling & the symptoms you have every day. A friend of mine made up a spreadsheet but you don’t have to go that far!
I found listening to podcasts, radio programmes, audiobooks & music was a good distraction, so get plenty of stuff downloaded on your phone. Also good for those nights when you might not be able to sleep, & more relaxing than just lying there worrying about not sleeping!
When you go in for your treatment, wear elasticated loose trousers to make it easy to go to the loo when you only have one hand available- one arm will have the chemo drip attached. I always took an insulated bottle with a nice cold drink to sip, some biscuits to nibble, & a small box with grapes, orange segments etc.
There always seemed to be so much going on, & folk to chat to, the time actually passed really quickly. It does seem daunting when you’re waiting for it to start, but you soon get into the routine. You’ll have days when you don’t feel great, but also plenty of days when you’ll be able to get out for a walk or meet friends.
Sending very best wishes, let us know how you’re getting on XX