It’s normal to be overwhelmed when you learn that you’ll have chemotherapy as part of your cancer treatment. And it can be difficult to know exactly what to expect, because everyone’s experience of chemotherapy will be different.
“That’s when it’s important to talk to your care team—your provider or your navigator,” says Catina Mitchell, administrative specialist at the Mary Anne Long Patient and Family Resource Center at N.C. Basnight Cancer Hospital. “They are always there to help when you reach out, and they can explain what will happen, step by step.”
When you know what to expect, the process will seem less intimidating. It also helps to bring a few items from home to make each appointment more comfortable, Mitchell says. Here are her suggestions.
Bring: A blanket and warm layers.
“The room can be cold, so I always recommend a blanket,” Mitchell says. “It’s also important to wear layers so that you can adjust if you get too warm.”
While some infusion centers provide blankets, bringing one from home might help you feel more comfortable and connected to what matters to you during treatment.
Slippers or socks can be nice to slip on while you receive treatment.
Bring: A water bottle and snacks.
Treatment may overlap with a time you typically eat a meal. While many treatment centers have a cafeteria or vending machines, you may want to bring your own lunch and snacks.
Everyone feels differently during and after their chemotherapy appointments, which may affect what you’re in the mood to eat. You may need bland, easy-to-digest food, but it’s also important to try to focus on getting nutrients so that you can keep your strength up during treatment. Crackers, cheese and fruit are safe bets, Mitchell says.
Dehydration can worsen some side effects of chemotherapy, so, “I definitely recommend a refillable water bottle,” Mitchell says.
Bring: Your favorite activity.
For some people, chemotherapy infusions take hours, so you’re going to want something that will keep you entertained.
“I tell people to be prepared to stay all day,” Mitchell says. “You have to pack your patience, but you should also pack your tablet, crossword puzzles, magazines, a book or e-reader—things that will help you pass the time.”
While your infusion center likely has Wi-Fi, it might be helpful to download a movie onto your device beforehand. You may find it comforting to create a special playlist of songs to listen to while you receive treatment.
If you’re bringing technology, be sure to remember the necessary accessories—like headphones and chargers.
You may not feel like doing anything, and that’s OK, too. Bring items that will help you rest, like a favorite pillow, an eye mask and earplugs.
Bring: Lip balm, hard candies and lotion.
Chemotherapy commonly causes dryness throughout the body, so it’s good to have moisturizers on hand.
“The lips can get very dry, so lip balm is always helpful,” Mitchell says. “Hand lotion can feel good. And hard candies can help with dryness in your mouth.”
Hard candies also help if you tend to feel nauseous during treatment. If you feel queasy, tell your care team; your provider may prescribe something to help with this side effect.
Bring: A friend or family member.
This last one can’t be packed in a bag—but know that a loved one is always welcome at your chemotherapy appointments.
“Having someone there for emotional support is always great,” Mitchell says. “It’s wonderful to have someone you can talk to, who can help check in with how you’re doing.”
Some people find it hard to ask for help, so if you know someone going through chemotherapy, be proactive about volunteering to come to these appointments. You might coordinate with your loved one’s friends and family to create a schedule of who will go to which appointments, so that the burden doesn’t fall on the person receiving treatment.
If you can’t be there, try sending a note or text of encouragement.
“Saying or sending an affirmation or positive message can be really helpful,” Mitchell says.
If you have questions about cancer treatment, talk to your doctor. If you need a doctor, find one near you.