Nausea and Loss of Appetite

Why does this happen?

Cancer and its treatments can cause:

Nausea

Vomiting

Loss of appetite

Taste changes

Early fullness

Mouth sores

Constipation

Diarrhoea

These problems can reduce food intake and lead to weight loss and malnutrition. 

What may help?

Eat small meals more frequently rather than forcing yourself to eat a large meal.

Try eating when your appetite is best.

Choose foods that you tolerate well.

If smells make you nauseated, choose cooler foods that have less smell.

Keep easy-to-eat snacks available.

Take prescribed anti-nausea medicines as directed.

Drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration.

If you are losing weight

Tell your doctor or dietitian.

You may need a more concentrated source of calories and protein.

Do not assume that losing weight is always desirable during cancer treatment.

What about Ayurvedic remedies?

Do not automatically use herbal preparations for nausea.

Some products may interact with cancer medicines.

Discuss them with your cancer-care team first.

When should I contact my doctor urgently?

Seek medical advice if:

You cannot keep fluids down

Vomiting is persistent

You are becoming dehydrated

You are losing significant weight

You have severe abdominal pain

You have blood in vomit or stool

Reliable sources: National Cancer Institute (NCI), World Health Organization (WHO), relevant national cancer-care guidelines, and appropriate peer-reviewed evidence.