Chemo side effects

Hi Shellmarie I had a little more hair shed than normal when brushing etc but nothing that anyone else would have noticed, if i hadn't seen what was in the brush i dont even think i would have known. I don't recall anyone on hear saying they lost their hair, a few have said it got thinner. As far as I'm aware it's not a side affect of this chemo, at least that's what I was told. 

It's understandable that you are concerned though, it was the first question I asked when I was diagnosed.

I'm sure you will be fine. Sending hugs. Xx

Bungle1 thanks for sharing x

i wasn’t bothered about this couple of weeks ago more the bum stuff burns pain etc but as it gets closer to treatment my heads working overdrive about everything 

I have it to do I just remind myself of how would be if haven’t found it or stuck with nothing can be done it’s so early days!

tomorrow is a new day and hopefully more positivity comes with it this really helps much appreciated ️

Just focus on the fact by the end of July treatment will be done and you will be resting and getting your health back. Xxx

Hi there Shellmarie , the chances of losing your hair can depend on your chemo regime from what I understand. Personally I had an infusion of mitomycin on day 1 of treatment & oral capecitabine each day of treatment thereafter, my hair went a little thinner (I too have quite fine hair) although nobody else noticed this only me, it was quite dry by the end of treatment but after a couple of good trims & a bit of tlc it was back to normal & thickened up again. If you have chemo via infusion in weeks 1 & 5 then I believe there’s a higher chance you may lose your hair although this isn’t a given. 

I hope this eases your worries a little. 

Nicola 

Found out I’m having infusion one day then tablets rest of the first week and the nurse reassured me I won’t lose my hair but that I will likely need morphine for the pain levels skin soreness etc have my oncology appmt tomorrow and will get my actual treatment start date I think will be the 22nd eeekkkkkk

Feel like I’m getting ready to be a warrior but I know no pain no gain 

thanks for your advice and reassurance Nicola bet I’m freaking out by the day before xxx

Hello Shellmarie 

I hope you have been reassured by the answers you have had, and your concern about hair loss is totally understandable.  And I have just seen your latest reply where you tell us that you are having the infusion day one, followed by tablets.  I am not a hair expert but I don't know anyone who has completely lost their hair on this regimen, they may have noticed slight thinning and klack of condition but that's all.

So less than three weeks to go; that isn't long to wait, we are all rooting for you and remember we are here to help should you need it.

Big hug

Irene xx

Yes that’s the same chemo regime as I had, my oncologist told me when we discussed my treatment plan that the oral chemo is much gentler on your system than the infusion.

Try not to worry too much, the side effects from the radiotherapy build very gradually, they won’t appear all at once, most people seem to get to week 3 or 4 before there’s any real discomfort regarding skin reactions, your skin may feel a little hot & sensitive before that but try not to worry that you’ll be in excruciating pain the whole way through. Between your radiology team & oncologist you’ll have access to lots of lotions & potions to ease any issues that do appear. I bought loose fitting trousers etc., to wear to my treatment appointments in anticipation of being really sore but wore my jeans throughout & was perfectly comfortable. We’re all individuals & although there are common threads remember our reactions to the treatment are individual too. 

I was so scared the day before & on the morning of my first treatment, on reflection it was fear of the unknown & once the first couple of days were done it very quickly became routine. 

Nicola 

Hi..

I had the same fears re hair..

I made sure I only used baby shampoo and I didn't tie my hair up for a few months..

I also didn't use straighteners and when I dried my hair I used a soft brush..

I lost a little hair.. but only noticeable to me...

Im 18 months out of my treatment and my hair is good.. 

Try not to worry about it... focus on fighting this AC fight and stay kind to yourself xx

Hi Shellmarie, 

Good luck with your treatment plan, you sound as though you're off to a good start with your 'warrior' outlook and I wish you all the best. The 5 and 1/2 weeks goes quicker than you think.

My oncologist told me before treatment started that in general, those on capacetabine tablets don't lose their hair, and he was right. I finished my 5 1/2 week treatment just yesterday and used a mild Simple shampoo and conditioner throughout treatment with no harsh chemicals. Regarding pain relief, everyone is different so although the nurse mentioned morphine, don't overthink, you may not require it. I think their point may have been whatever you are experiencing they have something for everything, just remember to tell them what you are experiencing. xx

Hi

I am still having hair loss now 5 months after treatment. My hair is thick so I can only feel the difference. I have to unblock the shower while washing my hair or I stand in a paddling pool. I have said to the nurse about it and she said it will slow down in time. 
Hope all your treatment goes well for you