Can’t eat or drink anything.

My daughter has just had her first round of chemo and cannot keep any food or drink down even after 7 days. She keeps going back to hospital for IV fluids.

She is due her next round of chemo next week and I am scared that the vomiting and lack of appetite will continue and she will lose loads of weight and not be strong enough to cope.

How can I help her. Can we ask for IV food supplements?

  • Hello and thanks for posting,

    I can appreciate your concern for your daughter. It is important that she tells her hospital chemotherapy team about her symptoms.

    They can prescribe different anti sickness medications prior to her having the next treatment. They can also prescribe steroids to help with the appetite.

    We have information on this link about types of anti sickness medications Unfortunately, a small number of patients require different medications, sometimes a combination, to control their nausea. This will then help with appetite as well. We have a website section on tips for diet problems

    I hope that this helps, 

    Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Yours sincerely,

    Vanda

  • Thank you so much for your reply. The links are very helpful.