Cancer patients need to be especially vigilant when it comes to
adequate hydration. Drinking enough fluids helps the body
excrete toxins such as those produced by chemotherapy. The
health care provider needs to express the importance of drinking
plenty of fluids when it comes to cancer treatment. When
patients become dehydrated, either due to the gastrointestinal
effects of chemotherapy or because they are not taking in enough
fluids, they can become excessively fatigued and lack energy.
Sometimes dehydration can prompt a trip to the hospital, as
patients can become extremely sleepy and even lethargic. When
this happens, intravenous fluids are often started and then the
patient becomes more responsive. Being adequately hydrated means
that the urinary tract system can function at it’s best, while
eliminating toxins and bacteria, via the urine. If toxins and
bacteria are not allowed to be eliminated, infection can take
hold. With the cancer patient’s already compromised immune
system, any infection, no matter h