Cycle 5 being done today (25/09/24).
Unfortunately Cycle 4 has been significantly worse, due to cumulative effects which are widely experienced - and other than mouth problems all others have persisted through the full duration of the Cycle.
Notable observations are:
NEW - SHORTNESS OF BREATH - first noticed slight on day 5 but gradually became worse and by day 10 was intrusive walking up slopes. By day 15 a dry cough developed and any activity other than a steady walk on the level caused heavier breathing. Consultant said in review on day 16 this was to be expected and consequent decline in excercise compounds it - as well as fatigue (see below). Sent for chest X ray (partly due to my lung cancer treatment 10 years ago). Day 21 and I still don't know the result - no news is good news but it does no good for my anxiety level and I'll try to find out at chemo visit today.
MOUTH - became sore again but was supplied with mouthwashes in advance so started using these before the worst symptoms appeared which had it cleared in 6 days. Will ask for same suppiles again today.
FATIGUE - much worse, started day 3 and became worse as time progressed. On day 17 I cut my grass and for the first time ever had to stop half way through each lawn for a rest. Now even walking an the leveI is very tiring. Again, a vicious circle because activity helps fatigue but also causes it so is very difficult! Just need to keep trying to push as far as possible. I hate being inactive!
HANDS - same as last time.
WEIGHT - 3lbs lighter day 21 as on day 1. I'm pleased because exercise activity has declined significantly but I've maintained a very healthy diet as well as losing appetite on a few down days but probably offset by a few comforting G&Ts, beers and glasses of red (in moderation of course!).
EYES - remained watery throughout and becoming a real nuisance when outdoors, especially with temperatures dropping a little and generally breezier
HAIR - very thin but there's still some left. Definitely need a hat on these chillier mornings / evenings and dull / breezy days.
OVERALL - cycle 4 has much more difficult due to more intense and longer lasting side effects than 1 to 3. I'm quite nervous to see what Cycle 5 brings.
