Sickness and vomiting self-help tips

Feeling sick and being sick may make it difficult for you to eat and drink. There are things you can do to make it easier. You can:

• Try avoiding hot food. Many people find it smells stronger than food that’s room temperature or cold.
• Try to avoid cooking when you’re feeling sick. If possible, let someone help with cooking.
• Cook and freeze meals in advance if you can.
• Avoid fried, fatty, spicy and very sweet foods. Plain, bland foods may be easier to eat.
• Eat little and often.
• Chew your food well and sip drinks slowly.
• Avoid drinking a lot before you eat.
• Try to make sure you drink enough fluids. If you don’t feel like drinking, you might find it easier to suck on ice cubes.

Some people also find food or drinks containing ginger and peppermint can help. You could try peppermint tea, peppermints, ginger beer or ginger biscuits. If you’re worried you’re not eating or drinking enough, speak to your clinical nurse specialist (CNS) who will be able to help. They may offer you high-calorie drinks or other options to make sure your body gets what it needs. Or they may refer you to a dietitian.

Complementary therapies are treatments that are used alongside standard medical treatments such as anti-sickness drugs – not instead of them. Although the evidence is limited, some people find that complementary therapies (such as acupuncture, wearing an acupressure bracelet, meditation and relaxation techniques) help relieve their symptoms and improve their well-being.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may also help if your sickness happens before treatment.

Always talk to your doctor or nurse before you try complementary therapies to check that they’re safe for you. They know you and your individual situation.

• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Avoid strong smells as much as possible.
• Open a window or go outside to get fresh air.
• Distract yourself with activities such as reading a magazine or watching a film.

If sickness is making you feel very low, ask your clinical nurse specialist (CNS) about getting emotional support, or contact our free, confidential Support Service.

You can also join our Online Community Forum to talk to hear from and talk to other people affected by blood cancer.

We have information if you're supporting or caring for someone with blood cancer.