Chemo Advice Please

So now I know I have lung cancer and have met the oncologist to discuss the treatment.  I have my first chemo session tomorrow and I have no idea what to expect.  I'd be really grateful for any tips or advice you can give - do I need to take anything with me; is there anything I should be doing today to prepare?  Any help at all gratefully received.

  • Hello Debbo,

    I hope all goes well tomorrow as you start your chemotherapy treatment. Many on this site will have been in a similar place before and remember very well how apprehensive they also felt the day before they started their first chemotherapy treatment. I am sure they will be along shortly to share tips and give you some advice on how best to prepare for your first session.

    We have some information on our website on chemotherapy for lung cancer which you can read here. It includes a video about cancer treatment and what to expect from chemotherapy, how best to prepare yourself for the day.

    I hope this helps a little and that you will also hear from first-hand experiences here.

    If you live in the UK, our nurse helpline is also open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and you can ring them on this free number 0808 800 4040 and ask them any question you may have about chemotherapy.

    Best wishes,

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi Debbo Drink plenty of water today, tomorrow and for the next few days. The nurses should be able to give you advice because it will depend on the chemo what the potential side effects are. Don't drink any alcohol for the next few days. Take someone with you if possible, you will probably feel tired so rest. You can take what ever you want - books, mp3, phone, most hospitals have WiFi so tablet is ok. You just have to be considerate of other people. You will be attached to a drip but you can get to the loo just not leave the ward so take some snacks. Treatments vary in length and frequency again depending on the chemo. I kept a chemo diary of how I was feeling this was helpful when I had my review and also it showed a pattern of how I was so I knew when I would be tired and when my side effects would be. I was always ok for a couple of days after and never needed the antisickness tablets. It's worrying the first time, ask what ever questions you want. Good luck River