Coping physically with cancer
Some people can feel sick (have nausea) and not be sick. Others are sick (vomit) and never actually feel sick. You can have nausea or vomiting on its own or both together. To treat this, you might have one or more anti sickness medications. And you may choose to use some complementary therapies alongside medication.
Sickness is a very unpleasant feeling. A part of the brain called the vomiting centre controls being sick. Not everyone with cancer feels sick or is sick.
There could be lots of different reasons why you feel sick, including the cancer itself and its treatment.
There are different ways of having anti sickness medicines. This includes having medicines by mouth, into the bloodstream or as an injection just underneath the skin.
There are different types of medicines used to control sickness (nausea and vomiting) in cancer care. It might take some time to find a combination that works for you.
Not everyone will have side effects from anti sickness medicines. Possible side effects include constipation, headaches or feeling drowsy. Possible side effects depend on the medicines you are taking.
Along with anti sickness medication there are other ways to control sickness and make you feel more comfortable.
Last reviewed: 15 Nov 2023
Next review due: 15 Nov 2026
This section is written, reviewed and updated by Cancer Research UK’s Patient Information Web Team. Thanks to the expert medical professionals and people affected by cancer who have helped to review this information.
Dr Angela Halley (Consultant in Palliative Medicine)
our lay reviewers
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.
Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
