When undergoing radiation treatment, it’s natural to feel anxious about potential side effects such as nausea and vomiting. These symptoms, called radiation-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV), are frequent and can significantly impact your quality of life. They typically manifest within hours to days following the treatment and can persist for varying durations. The severity of these side effects varies among individuals and depends on factors such as the type of radiation therapy administered, the radiation dose, and the treated area. For instance, brachytherapy, an internal radiation therapy, often induces fewer side effects compared to external radiation therapy. 

Effective symptom management is crucial not only for your comfort but also for treatment continuation. Thankfully, many strategies are available to help manage nausea and vomiting, and in this article, we’ll provide practical tips for alleviating these symptoms.

1. Medication

After radiation therapy, doctors will often prescribe anti-nausea medications known as antiemetics. These drugs help alleviate feelings of sickness and vomiting. Approximately 17% of patients receive these medications ⁽¹⁾. Depending on your situation, your healthcare provider may prescribe them as a preventive measure before symptoms arise or as rescue therapy to alleviate discomfort. 

2. Non-drug remedies

Some natural remedies and therapies can effectively ease radiation-induced nausea. Combining conventional medicine with complementary therapies is increasingly popular for managing these symptoms. Here are some non-drug methods that have helped people cope with nausea and vomiting:

1. Mind-Body Relaxation Techniques: Breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can decrease nausea and vomiting by promoting relaxation. Practices like meditation and yoga aim to reduce stress and anxiety, which can worsen nausea symptoms.
2. Herbal Remedies: Ginger, peppermint, and chamomile are popular herbal remedies that can be consumed in tea or supplement to ease nausea.
3. Aromatherapy: Essential oils like peppermint, lemon, and lavender promote relaxation and alleviate nausea symptoms.
4. Music Therapy: Listening to your favorite music track can also help by signaling your brain to relax. Nausea originates in the brain, not the stomach, and enjoyable music decreases the chemicals causing it.
5. Acupuncture and Acupressure: These traditional Chinese techniques involve inserting thin needles into the skin or applying pressure to specific points. They can help alleviate nausea. ⁽²⁾

3. Lifestyle changes and dietary adjustments

Simple lifestyle changes can help ease your symptoms. Getting fresh air whenever possible, wearing loose and comfortable clothing, avoiding strong odors, prioritizing rest, and creating a stress-free environment can all contribute to your comfort.
Diet also plays a significant role in alleviating symptoms of nausea and vomiting. Here are some simple adjustments you can make:

• Opt for small, frequent meals throughout the day to ease the strain on your stomach.
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. For easier tolerance, try options like ginger ale, broth, or ice cubes.
• Incorporate acidic taste/tart foods like lemons or pickles into your diet, as their intense flavors can be helpful when experiencing changes in taste perception.
• Consider using ginger root, a natural remedy known for settling upset stomachs. You can chew candied ginger or add fresh ginger slices to your meals for relief.
• Choose flat, clear soft drinks. Avoid darker cola drinks that contain caffeine, which can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
• If cooking odors trigger nausea, opt for cold foods, which may be more tolerable. 
• Avoid spicy, fried, or greasy foods, which can exacerbate nausea.
• If your appetite is poor or swallowing is difficult, consider meal replacement shakes to ensure you’re getting proper nourishment. 

Making small adjustments to your diet and lifestyle can alleviate nausea and vomiting and improve your overall comfort during treatment. Remember to consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support tailored to your needs. Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of radiation therapy. Addressing these symptoms through various remedies, including medication and holistic strategies, is important for patient comfort and well-being during treatment.

Additionally, discussing alternative treatments such as brachytherapy, which have shown fewer side effects, with your healthcare provider may provide further relief. Open communication with your medical team is crucial, as both patients and professionals often underestimate the impact of nausea and vomiting on treatment experiences ^(3,4).

References

1. Radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting: Prophylaxis and treatment, Petra Feyer, MD, Karin Jordan, MD and al.SECTION EDITORS:Paul J Hesketh, MDSteven E Schild, MDDEPUTY EDITOR:Sadhna R Vora, MD. Apr 05, 2022.
2. Efficacy of acupuncture in the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in patients with advanced cancer: a multi-center, single-blind, randomized, sham-controlled clinical research, Qi-Wei Li, Ming-Wei Yu et al. Chinese Medicine volume 15, Article number: 57 (2020)
3. Radiotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (RINV): MASCC/ESMO guideline for antiemetics in radiotherapy; Feyer PC, Maranzano E, Molassiotis A, et al. update 2009. Support Care Cancer. 2011;19(suppl 1):S5-S14.
4. Radiation-induced nausea and vomiting, Susan Urba, MD. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network | Volume 5 Number 1 | January 2007 … (JNCCN 2007;5:60–65)