Managing Dizziness During Chemotherapy: Causes & Relief

When you're undergoing chemo, you may at times feel faint or dizzy. Many chemo medications can cause dizziness. The dizziness may also be joined by a loss of hearing or vision, ringing in the ears, nausea or vomiting. The condition may only last a few days. It can also hang on for a few months.

Instructions

• 1

  Tell your doctor if you notice that you're dizzy or lose your hearing or vision. If your symptoms get worse and not better, tell him immediately.

• 2

  Drink plenty of fluid every day to keep yourself from getting dehydrated. Aim for two to three liters per day. Fluids include water, fruit juice, coffee and caffeine-free soda. Carry a water bottle with you and keep it filled.

• 3

  Take your time when you change positions. You want your body to adapt to the movement. This can limit dizziness.

• 4

  Lie down until the dizziness passes. This may be the only way to cope with it.

• 5

  Walk often, making sure to keep your movements slow. If you have severe dizziness, walk with the assistance of others.

• 6

  See a doctor or physical therapist for a round of exercises that can combat the dizziness. They're called vestibular exercises. You may be dizzier at first, but it will go away over time.