Nausea and vomiting are two of the most upsetting side effects for cancer patients. This brief summary describes nausea and vomiting, their causes, and treatment. Overview Prevention and control of nausea and vomiting are very important in the treatment of cancer patients. Uncontrolled nausea and vomiting can lead to chemical changes in the body, loss of appetite, physical and mental problems, a torn esophagus, broken bones, and the reopening of surgical wounds. Uncontrolled nausea and vomiting may interfere with the patient's ability to receive cancer treatment and care for himself or herself.
Vomiting is the forceful elimination of the contents of the stomach through the mouth.
Even though treatments have improved, nausea and vomiting continue to be worrisome side effects. Nausea may be far more distressing for patients than vomiting. Nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy are classified as anticipatory, acute, or delayed. Anticipatory nausea and vomiting may occur before or during chemotherapy, and appear earlier than these symptoms would be expected. Anticipatory symptoms may also appear in patients who are receiving radiation therapy.