PATIENTS > Medication side effects > Nausea and vomiting

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Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of oral chemotherapy. In addition to being unpleasant and difficult to tolerate, nausea and vomiting can cause dehydration, appetite changes and weight loss.

Working with your healthcare team, you can prevent or reduce these issues with changes in eating habits, antinausea medications and other treatments.

Symptoms of nausea include:

• Nausea is described as feeling "queasy" or "being sick to your stomach"
• Nausea possibly includes increased saliva, dizziness or a rapid heart rate
• Nausea often results in "throwing up" or vomiting

Coping strategies

The foods you eat can affect how you feel during treatment. Because there will be times when it is difficult to eat, find nutritious foods you enjoy and take advantage of times when your appetite is the strongest.

• Avoid sweet, fried or fatty foods with strong odors.
• Choose foods and beverages easy for you to tolerate when you feel nauseated.
• Don't force yourself to eat when you feel queasy.
• Eat before you feel hungry.
• Eat foods cold or at room temperature.
• Take small bites and chew thoroughly.
• Eat small meals throughout the day instead of consuming three large meals.
• Sip fluids throughout the day, but limit the fluids you drink with meals.

Other tips:

• Wear loose-fitting clothes.
• If your stomach feels unsettled, open a window or use a fan to get some fresh air.
• Brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after vomiting.
• If you develop mouth sores or suffer from other discomforts that affect your lips, mouth or throat, ask your healthcare team about oral hygiene.

Information provided here does not constitute professional medical advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither Walgreen Co., its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this material. If you have a medical question, consult your medical professional.