Infusion therapy is a commonly used method of chemo delivery. During treatment, there is a possibility that you will not have any side effects or experience mild problems that improve after a matter of days. Getting through treatment can be challenging, but with the proper preparation before the treatment, you can potentially minimize the possibility of having side effects. Here are some steps you can take before and after treatment.  

Increase Your Water Intake 

One of the potential side effects of chemotherapy is dehydration. Dehydration can not only worsen the side effects from the treatment, but it can lead to serious consequences, such as shock and kidney failure. To safeguard your health, it is important that you drink plenty of water prior to and following treatment.  

The increase in your water intake will help prevent dehydration. It can also help to flush the meds from your system, which can help lessen some of the side effects you might be experiencing.  

Get Plenty of Rest 

Chemotherapy treatments can lead to extreme fatigue in some patients. The fatigue that you can experience can last a few days or longer. The side effect can make it difficult to keep up with other tasks you have to complete to take care of yourself, including eating a balanced meal and taking your medications.  

One way to help fight off the fatigue is to get plenty of rest before you start treatment. Talk to your doctor about an exercise regimen. Regular exercise can help to naturally boost your energy levels. After treatment, you should continue exercising when you are physically able to. In addition to this, remember to stay hydrated and eat well to give your body the energy it needs.  

Use Food to Combat Side Effects 

Before and after chemotherapy treatment, some people experience a decrease in appetite. It is important to maintain a healthy diet though. Food not only helps to build up your energy levels, but it can help to combat some of the side effects you might experience.  

For instance, increasing the amount of fiber you eat can help fight off constipation. If diarrhea is a concern, avoiding certain foods, such as salad greens and fried foods, can help. You can eat oatmeal and sweet potatoes to help with easing the symptoms.  

Once you start chemotherapy, keep notes about the side effects you are experiencing. Your oncologist can offer tips you can use prior to and after treatment to help alleviate those symptoms.