How to Prevent Dehydration During Cancer Treatment

Dehydration is common during cancer treatment, and it occurs when you lose more fluid than you take in. Staying hydrated helps your kidneys work properly, protects your overall health, and reduces your chance of needing emergency care.

When you're dehydrated, your body struggles to balance important salts and minerals. This imbalance can make you feel worse and can even affect your treatment schedule.

Let’s quickly look at why dehydration happens during treatment.

What Causes Dehydration During Cancer Treatment?

Chemotherapy and radiation, along with some medications, often cause side effects that lead to dehydration. These treatments can irritate your stomach and gut lining, triggering fluid loss.

The main reasons for dehydration during cancer treatment include:

• Vomiting and diarrhea caused by chemotherapy or radiation
• Kidney strain from certain chemotherapy drugs
• Reduced saliva and dry mouth from radiation to your head or neck
• Nausea or vomiting caused by pain medications

Radiation treatments targeting the head and neck can particularly affect saliva glands, making swallowing fluids difficult.

Now that you know the why, here’s how to stay ahead day to day.

How to Prevent Dehydration During Cancer Treatment

Drinking enough fluids daily is your first defense against dehydration. Everyone’s needs are different based on their treatment, age, and side effects, but a good rule is about eight glasses of water daily.

Keep water close and make sipping easy:

• Carry a water bottle or keep one within easy reach.
• Set regular reminders to drink fluids throughout the day.
• Add slices of fruit or herbs like mint to your water if plain water is unappealing.

Foods high in water content can also boost your hydration. These include:

• Melons like watermelon and cantaloupe
• Cucumbers, celery, and lettuce
• Soups, smoothies, or diluted fresh juices

You should also limit drinks that make dehydration worse, such as alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. Alcohol increases fluid loss, while caffeine can make you urinate more.

1. Use Electrolyte Drinks Safely

When nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea strikes, electrolyte drinks help by replacing fluids and the salts and minerals your body loses. Commercial oral rehydration solutions (ORS) typically come in packets mixed into one liter of clean water.

If commercial ORS isn’t available, a homemade drink can temporarily help. Here’s a simple mix:

• 1 liter of clean water
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup
• Juice of one lemon or lime

Before using homemade solutions, talk to your care team, especially if symptoms are severe. Tracking what goes in and out helps you spot problems early.

2. Track Fluid Intake and Output

Keeping an eye on your fluid intake helps you stay hydrated. Using a measured water bottle or cup can make tracking easier. Check these simple indicators daily:

• Pale yellow or clear urine usually means you're well-hydrated.
• Dark-colored or concentrated urine signals you need more fluids.
• Sudden weight loss over a day or two often points to dehydration.

A few food swaps also make hydration easier.

Extra Tips During Cancer Treatment

Small, frequent meals are easier on your stomach, helping you avoid nausea and stay hydrated. Greasy or spicy foods might irritate your stomach and increase fluid loss, so choose gentle foods instead.

If your doctor suggests oral rehydration solutions, you may try brands designed specifically for hydration, especially if symptoms persist.

Know the warning signs that means you should call us now.

When to Call Your Doctor

Certain symptoms can indicate serious dehydration and require immediate medical attention:

• Severe thirst, dizziness, confusion, or fainting
• Rapid or weak heartbeat
• Very dark urine or very infrequent urination
• Extreme fatigue or weakness

Severe dehydration can impact the effectiveness of cancer treatment and increase the risk of infection by weakening the immune system. In severe cases, dehydration can also lead to organ failure.

It’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider, who can evaluate the symptoms and recommend an appropriate course of treatment, which may include intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement, or other interventions.

If you have any questions or concerns about the risk of dehydration during cancer treatment, contact ACTC, one of the best cancer treatment centers in Florida.

ACTC offers personalized cancer care plans and treatments. Call 352-345-4565 or book an appointment.