I have never been a heavy water drinker, so this has become one of my biggest challenges. I did really well the first two weeks of treatment, consuming at least 64 oz per day (8 glasses), but then I slacked off a bit this last week drinking a Diet Coke now and then as well as a cup of tea in the morning. Well, I learned the hard way how important it is to stay hydrated while getting your chemo Intravenously. Notice I didn’t title this blog “water.” That was purposeful. You probably remember from your 7th grade science class (or earlier) that water is part oxygen. Oxygen makes it way through the blood stream, opening our veins and permitting the fluids to flow. When we lack oxygen, our veins flatten and makes it harder to insert an IV. This is my humble and very uneducated way of explaining dehydration. Losing oxygen flow also means there is less for our brains, producing light-headedness, inability to concentrate, and general fatigue as well as other symptoms. In my case, the first vein attempt was a “blow-out.” That’ll leave a bruise.
So, lesson learned! Lots of fluids. Water is best. Adding substitute sweeteners counters the effects of the fluids, so don’t be tempted. Even if you don’t have cancer, there are so many reasons to drink water. Put a little lemon in it if you like, but drink at least 8 glasses per day. Otherwise, I’m doing great and the third treatment was relatively uneventful. And so far, I still have my hair. 🙂
How much water do you drink each day? What can you do to increase your intake? Feel free to comment below.
They are not going to put in a port? Maybe it’s for the best, a large bruise now and then verses another surgical procedure and flushes till you get it out. I didn’t have a port on my first time with chemo also and all went well. It still hurts when they insert into the port which we will do this week for blood and flushing. And you are a inspiration for me to get back into drinking the water and let up on the diet coke.
Hi Carolann. Thanks for reading my blog, and for the comment! The nurse told me to drink lots of fluids several days in advance – same day apparently doesn’t really make much difference. You’re right about the warmth, however. They have nice warmed blankets they wrap around my arm (and lay on my lap) which helps soothe the veins. That may also be contributing to me falling asleep.
Thank you for your prayers! I think they are planning on installing a port, but I’m still waiting to hear when that takes place so it’s good to have plump veins in the meantime. It will be SO much easier with a port!
Take care!
Cindy
I sympathize Cindy. I’ve always had a nightmare of a time anytime I need blood drawn. And Iv’s forget it…they usually blow out a bunch of sites and end up in my hand or wrist. You are absolutely right about the water. I drink tons of it before I get tested. Also warmth helps too. I’m told when you are cold your veins tend to hide deeper and when you are warm they come closer to the surface….So if it’s not a really hot day, I take a very hot bath right before going to the lab. All seem to help.
I know first hand how stressful & uncomfortable it is while they are trying to “find it”. I’m adding plump and cooperative veins to my prayer list for you!