Diet and Health FAQ

Tagged As: Treatment Of Nausea

Question:
My mother was recently diagnosed with cancer in her lung and kidney. Unfortunately, due to an accident she broke a rib before the cancer was discovered and it moved into her bones as well. She is undergoing radiation and chemo therapy to try to put the cancer into remission. (The doctors say there is a 40% chance). She is experiencing significant nausea due to the treatment. I have heard there are some herbal (or other natural) remedies that can be used to treat the nausea associated with cancer treatment, but have been unable to dig up anything (so far) on the WWW. Does anyone know where I might find the information I am seeking, or can you give me some suggestions on any ways I can help eliminate or reduce her nausea. any suggestion would be greatly appreciated.

Answer:
My mother has been using the drugs Zofran for nausea during her chemo and radiation treatments, with good results. She originally used Torecan, but Zofran seems to be more effective. We've also been giving her small bits of candied ginger (available in Chinese grocery shops) to help control nausea, as well as accupressure. Pressure applied with the palms and thumbs to the back, below the shoulder blades, sometimes helps. I am presently receiving Chemo for the second time around. A natural remedy (I have not used yet) is a slice of ginger in hot water to drink as a tea. My naturopath and other sources have mentioned it. I am presently taking the drug Zofran to combat nausea and it works wonderfully. My insurance covers it because it is very expensive.