10 things to bring to chemo

What to bring to the first chemo treatment

When it comes to chemo, we know that the experience can be overwhelming. However, packing a chemo kit with soothing items will really help to reduce your anxiety levels. Below is a simple method that can help you train your brain to change its focus whenever anxiety is present.

Objects of comfort: An anxiety technique

A comfort object can take many forms; you should try to find something that you find soothing to touch. It should be small enough to fit in a pocket, purse, or backpack, such as a rock you found on the beach, a squishy stress ball, or even a pen.

When anxiety flares, your object becomes something you automatically interact with. Utilise your senses by looking at it, touching it, and manipulating it. By repeatedly rubbing your thumb across the surface of the object, you can distract your mind from anxious thoughts and place it on the object. The result is a decrease in anxiety and a shift in thoughts. By practicing this technique several times a day, you will be able to train your brain to change its focus whenever anxiety flares up.

Chemo survival kit

 
Comfortable clothing

Wear a short sleeve or V-neck shirt to make it easier for the treatment technician to put an IV in your arm or a port in your chest.

I would always wear my favourite clothes, as this gave me the confidence to leave the house and travel to the treatment centre. 


Wear different layers, as treatment centres can be rather cold due to the air con or you may have hot flashes. 
    Journel 

    This can be used to write down any important information or used as a hospital passport. 


    Chemotherapy treatment days can be long and emotional. Writing down your feelings can help you process them. 
      Comfort  Bring fluffy socks, cosy blanket, scarf, hats or slippers, to help relax you and make you more comfortable. 
        Snacks 

        If you are having chemotherapy, bring snacks and lunch. You may be interested in reading our blog about ' what food to eat when feeling nauseous.' Not only can cancer treatment make you sick, but anxiety and stress can as well. 

         
        Electronics 

        Listening to music or meditations can be a great distraction.

        Ipad/laptop to watch movies, read, or go through holiday photos to district your brain from anxious thoughts. 
        Water Bottle 

        Chemo can be very dehydrating. Drinking lots of liquid before, during, and after chemotherapy sessions can alleviate feelings of nausea and help flush the toxins out of your body more quickly.


        Hydrating before blood tests also makes it easier for nurses to access your veins.

         

        Nausea relief

         

        		 Peppermint is great for nausea. Try mints, essential oil, or peppermint tea. 

        Ginger tea and ginger sweets 

        Anti-nausea acupressure wristbands.

        Aromatherapy. 

        Skin Care 
        Chemotherapy can make your skin extremely sensitive, so look for a fragrance-free cream or moisturiser and you might want to bring some lip balm too. 

        Oral Care 
        Chemotherapy is notorious for causing a dry mouth or leaving a metallic taste in your mouth. A toothbrush and toothpaste or a small bottle of alcohol-free mouthwash may be helpful. Or try gels, oral sprays or sweets. 

         

        Prepare more with this blog - 'How to Prepare for Cancer Treatment' 

        Written by Charlotte Sydenham

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