9 Practical Chemotherapy Tips Survivors Want You to Know

Facing chemotherapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Hearing from those who have walked this path can provide incredible comfort and practical wisdom. This guide shares nine must-know coping strategies that countless survivors swear by. While these tips are shared by many, always consult your oncology team before making any changes to your care plan.

1. Assemble Your "Chemo Go-Bag"

One of the most common pieces of advice from survivors is to prepare a dedicated “go-bag” for your treatment days. Infusion sessions can be long, and having a bag packed with comforts and necessities makes a world of difference. It removes the stress of last-minute packing and ensures you have what you need to be as comfortable as possible.

What to pack:

  • Comfort Items: A soft blanket or pashmina is essential, as infusion centers can be cold. Bring warm, fuzzy socks or slippers to keep your feet cozy. An eye mask and earplugs can also help if you want to rest.
  • Entertainment: Don’t rely on the clinic’s Wi-Fi. Download movies, podcasts, audiobooks, or music to your tablet or phone ahead of time. A good book or a simple craft like knitting can also be a great distraction. Remember to bring a portable charger or power bank.
  • Snacks and Drinks: While clinics provide some items, having your favorites on hand is better. Pack bland snacks like saltine crackers or pretzels in case of nausea. Hard candies, like lemon drops or ginger chews (such as Chimes Ginger Chews), can help with a metallic taste or dry mouth. Bring a large water bottle to stay hydrated.

2. Manage Nausea Proactively

Waiting for nausea to hit before you treat it is a common mistake. Survivors often stress the importance of staying ahead of it. Your medical team will prescribe anti-nausea medications, and it’s crucial to take them exactly as scheduled, even if you’re feeling fine at the moment.

Beyond prescribed medication, many people find relief with simple remedies. Peppermint or ginger tea can be very soothing for an upset stomach. Small, frequent meals are often easier to tolerate than three large ones. Stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods like toast, rice, bananas, and applesauce. Avoid greasy, spicy, or overly sweet foods, which can trigger nausea.

3. Make Hydration a Top Priority

Chemotherapy can be dehydrating, and dehydration can worsen side effects like fatigue, headaches, and nausea. Making a conscious effort to drink fluids throughout the day is one of the most powerful things you can do for your well-being.

Water is best, but if you get tired of it, try other options. Clear broths, diluted fruit juices, and electrolyte drinks can be great alternatives. Many survivors recommend sugar-free electrolyte powders like Liquid I.V. or Nuun to add to your water. Aim to sip fluids constantly rather than chugging large amounts at once, which can sometimes upset your stomach.

4. Protect Your Mouth and Gums

Mouth sores, a condition known as mucositis, are a frustratingly common side effect. Taking preventative steps can significantly reduce their severity or even prevent them from developing.

Start a gentle oral care routine from day one. Use an extra-soft toothbrush to avoid irritating your gums. Brush gently after every meal and before bed. Many oncologists recommend rinsing your mouth several times a day with a simple saltwater and baking soda solution (1⁄2 teaspoon of salt and 1⁄2 teaspoon of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water). Avoid commercial mouthwashes that contain alcohol, as they can be drying and painful. For dry mouth, products like Biotene mouthwash or XyliMelts adhering discs can provide lasting relief.

5. Embrace Gentle Movement

When you’re feeling exhausted, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. However, countless studies and survivor stories confirm that gentle movement can be one of the best ways to combat chemo-related fatigue. It can also boost your mood and help you feel more in control.

This doesn’t mean you need to run a marathon. A short, 15-20 minute walk each day can have a significant impact. Gentle stretching or restorative yoga can also help with stiffness and relaxation. The key is to listen to your body. On days you have more energy, do a little more. On days you’re exhausted, allow yourself to rest.

6. Keep a "Chemo Brain" Notebook

“Chemo brain” is the term for the mental fog, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating that can accompany treatment. It’s a real and valid side effect. Instead of getting frustrated with yourself, find a system to cope.

Survivors swear by keeping a dedicated notebook. Use it to write down everything: questions for your doctor, appointment times, medication schedules, and even simple daily to-do lists. Having a single place for all this information reduces mental clutter and anxiety. Using a digital app on your phone works just as well. The goal is to outsource your memory so your brain doesn’t have to work so hard.

7. Build and Use Your Support System

You will hear “let me know if you need anything” from many well-meaning friends and family. The key, survivors say, is to take them up on it with specific requests. People genuinely want to help but often don’t know how.

Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need. Create a list of concrete tasks that others can help with. Examples include:

  • “Could you pick up groceries for me on Tuesday?”
  • “Would you be able to drive me to my appointment next week?”
  • “Could you sit with me for a few hours so I’m not alone?”
  • “Can you help walk the dog in the afternoons?”

Assigning specific tasks makes it easier for people to help and takes a real burden off your shoulders.

8. Be Kind to Your Skin

Chemotherapy can make your skin incredibly dry, sensitive, and more susceptible to sunburn. Treat your skin with extra care during this time.

Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers. Brands like Cetaphil, CeraVe, and Aquaphor are often recommended because they are non-irritating. Apply lotion generously after every shower and throughout the day to prevent cracking and discomfort. Most importantly, protect your skin from the sun. Your skin will be extra sensitive to UV rays, so use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.

9. Prepare Meals for Low-Energy Days

There will be days when you feel too tired or unwell to cook. Planning for these days is a game-changer. Before you start treatment, or on a day when you’re feeling relatively good, spend some time prepping and freezing meals.

Soups, stews, casseroles, and pasta sauces all freeze well in individual portions. When you’re having a low-energy day, you can simply pull a nutritious, homemade meal from the freezer and reheat it. This ensures you’re still getting good nutrition without the effort of cooking, which is vital for keeping your strength up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do on the day of my first chemo treatment? On your first day, plan to arrive a little early to complete any paperwork without feeling rushed. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing in layers. Drink plenty of water before you go, and bring your chemo go-bag with all your essentials. It’s also a great idea to bring a trusted friend or family member for support.

How can I manage the anxiety before a treatment session? Anxiety is completely normal. Many find that practicing deep breathing exercises or listening to a guided meditation can help calm their nerves. Distraction is also a powerful tool, so immerse yourself in a good book, movie, or conversation. If your anxiety feels overwhelming, speak with your oncology team; they can connect you with support resources.

Is it normal to feel depressed during chemotherapy? Yes, it is very common to experience feelings of sadness, frustration, or depression during treatment. You are dealing with a major health challenge, and it’s okay to not be okay. It is vital to talk about these feelings with your support system and your medical team. They can refer you to a therapist or counselor who specializes in helping cancer patients.