When I first started chemo, they told me treatment on Monday and worst day of side effects on Thursday and then I’d get better. I did not get better. We finally called Monday, and Mary said to get down to their office immediately. She pumped 2 liters of fluids in me and I practically skipped out of the office. We quickly learned that fluids are a very good thing and scheduled 3 appointments a week of 1 or 2 liters. If I can afford the time to do a liter right after chemo, that even helps.
Now that I’m not eating or drinking I do fluids at home 7 days a week. I don’t think I’d still be here without it.
I usually nap (or read a book) while hooked up to the gravity drip. Last night was rough, so I was very ready for a nap today and slept right through my husband unhooking the fluids line when it was done. Dehydration is no good, make sure you get your fluids. And pedialite isn’t only for children, if you need something to help. You should see veterans come out when a new patient asks about fluids. We all say “get fluids” and find something you can drink – hot or cold, flavored or not, whatever works!
