Nausea from radiation.

ginger for nausea

 

Nausea is one of the most common side effects of radiation therapy.

Depending on what area the radiation is being delivered to, it could be expected to happen most of the time.

There is a high probability of getting nausea for people who receive radiation therapy to the following body regions:

  • Stomach
  • Pancreas
  • Mid-spine (thoracic or lumbar)
  • Liver
  • Any other cancer which requires treatment to the abdominal region

Receiving radiation to other body regions, including the pelvic region, could also cause nausea as well.

Many patient also receive chemotherapy along with radiation therapy.  Chemotherapy is also often associated with nausea.

Treatment

For significant nausea, doctors will often prescribe a nausea medication.  This is also often called an “anti-emetic“.

Examples of nausea medications include:

  • Ondansetron
  • Prochlorperazine
  • Granisetron
  • Metoclopramide*  (* – this drug can be associated with serious side effects and must be taken as directed by a physician.)

For less significant nausea, there are some home remedies that people have found useful, such as:

  • Ginger –  can also be found in powder form!   Try mixing with hot water.  Some Asian grocery stores also sell ginger candy.

Do you have any other suggestions for radiation nausea?  Comment below!