What to Pack in Your Chemotherapy Bag
For breast cancer patients, going through chemotherapy can be hard both physically and mentally. From spending hours at the hospital getting treatment, waiting for labs or getting routine checkups, long hospital days become the norm for those going through chemotherapy. On chemo days, the time can often pass by really slow if you don’t have anything to keep you busy. Aside from the long treatment days, the side effects of chemo can become hard to bear.
Bringing along activities, warm clothes, snacks and other necessities to keep you comfortable is essential for patients to get through these long chemo days. Packing a chemo bag full of all of the necessities can help make chemo just a little easier.
Below, we’ll highlight some go-to essentials you can pack in your chemo bag to help you through your chemo journey.
1. A jacket and warm blanket
If you’ve gone through chemotherapy before, you know oncology units can get pretty chilly. Plus, feeling cold even in normal temperatures is a common side effect for chemotherapy patients. To keep yourself comfortable, make sure to pack a jacket or wear one when you arrive. Packing a warm blanket in your bag can also help keep you warm and cozy during your treatment. Some hospitals might already offer you a warmed blanket, but if not, weighted or heated blankets are great options to help keep the chill away.
2. Reading materials
We often rely on our cell phones to help pass time and keep us distracted, but sometimes taking your eyes off your phone can be the best distraction. Bring along a new book or some of your favorite magazines to help fill up your treatment hours. A good book to read to get lost in is the perfect way to take your mind off your treatment.
3. Snacks
Long days spent at the hospital means you’ll likely work up an appetite. Keeping snacks handy when you need them can help you stay nice and energized during your treatment. If nausea is a common side effect you experience during our treatment, keep some crackers handy to help cure your upset stomach. You can also pack peppermint-flavored gum or ginger candies as peppermint and ginger both do wonders to help keep nausea away. Opt to pack snacks that are light and high in fiber—like oatmeal and nuts.
4. A journal
Not only can journaling help pass the time, but it can also be helpful to work through your emotions during your chemotherapy treatment. Many studies have shown that journaling has a positive impact on a patient’s mental health, so it’s definitely worth a shot. Whether you write notes about your side effects and treatment experiences or write about what’s going on in your life, journaling is a private way for you to acknowledge, express and work through those tough emotions.
5. Coloring pages
Who said adults can’t color? Coloring is a great way to pass the time, while also improving relaxation and mindfulness. This simple yet effective task can help relax your mind keep you focused on something positive while receiving chemotherapy. There are plenty of coloring books you can choose from, or you can download the HOPE coloring page below to pack in your chemo bag.
6. Headphones
Music is a great way to reduce stress and keep you calm during breast cancer treatment. Bring along a pair of headphones to listen to your favorite upbeat tunes, or turn on some soothing sounds or a guided meditation to help you keep calm and restful.
7. Lotion
Dry skin is another side effect of chemotherapy—plus constantly washing your hands and the cold chemo suites can make you feel even drier. To prevent any discomfort, pack an unscented lotion to help keep your skin nice and moisturized. You’ll want to make sure you’re picking one that is fragrance-free since those with added fragrances can often cause irritation which you don’t want to already dry skin.
8. Mind games
Simple mind games and brain teasers, like sudoku or crossword puzzles, can be another fun way to help pass the time during your chemo sessions. These kinds of activities can also help keep your mind focused and avoid the brain fog often caused by chemo—also known as chemo brain. If you’re looking for a fun brain game, the printable word scramble below is a perfect option.
Scroll to the bottom of the page to download your own copy of this word scramble.
Bringing a chemo bag full of essentials to your treatment appointments can help make sure you’re always prepared. Whether you’re looking for a snack, want an activity to pass the time or need some extra warmth, your chemo bag should have all of the necessities to help keep you comfortable. Customize your bag and add any additional items you think you’ll need. Chemotherapy isn’t easy, but these items can help make it better.
Check out our blog filled with links of all the necessities we just mentioned above.
Author bio:
Corey Doane is a digital content marketer who helps Asbestos create helpful and compelling content worth sharing. She has a passion for writing and loves creating content that covers health, lifestyle and wellness topics. When she isn’t working, you can find her at the beach or spending time with her family.