Appetite loss and nausea

Some people may lose interest in food or find it difficult to eat well during radiation therapy. This can depend on the part of the body being treated. It is important to try to keep eating well so you can maintain your weight. Good nutrition will give you more strength, help you manage any side effects, and improve how you respond to treatment.

Learn more about:

• Radiation therapy near the abdomen, pelvic region or head
• Radiation therapy to the head and neck area
• Getting help from a dietitian
• How to manage appetite changes
• Podcast: Appetite Loss and Nausea

Radiation therapy near the abdomen, pelvic region or head

You may feel sick (nauseated), with or without vomiting, for several hours after each treatment. Your radiation oncologist may prescribe medicine (an antiemetic) to take at home before and after each session to prevent nausea. If you are finding nausea difficult to manage, talk to the radiation oncologist or nurse, or call Cancer Council 13 11 20.

Radiation therapy to the head and neck area

Chewing or swallowing may be difficult or painful. Your sense of taste may also change if radiation therapy has affected the salivary glands or tastebuds. In some cases, taste changes may be permanent.

Getting help from a dietitian

If you are finding it difficult to eat well and get the nutrition you need, a dietitian can suggest changes to your diet, liquid supplements or a feeding tube. Dietitians work in all public and most private hospitals. You can ask your cancer care team for a referral to a dietitian to get advice on what to eat during treatment and recovery. To find an accredited practising dietitian in your area, visit Dietitians Australia.

How to manage appetite changes

→ READ MORE: Mouth and throat problems

At first, I couldn’t think about eating without thinking about throwing up. Drinking ginger beer helped control the nausea.

Simon

Podcast: Appetite Loss and Nausea

Listen to more episodes from our podcast for people affected by cancer