Chemotherapy

Hi Blondy . I had Gem/Cis which I believe is slightly stronger than Gem/Carbo but I tolerated it quite well with no real problems although people can have different reactions to it. A cycle usually consists of a long day in the chair followed by a half day the next week. Best to wear loose and comfortable clothing and take plenty of snacks and drinks, and something to keep you occupied such as book or phone etc. NHS Wifi is usually free. Although you are on a drip all day, the chemo is only for a short period in the middle. Most of the time it is a saline solution to keep your kidneys healthy. You don't usually have any reactions on the day of treatment. It is usually the day after you may feel a bit off. You will be given anti sickness pills which need to be taken as prescribed even if you don't feel sick. I still managed to go out for a pint after treatment. Treatment is administered via a canula in the back of your hand. You can get up and go to the toilet but need to take your drip with you. The chemo lounges are usually very upbeat and cheerful and not all doom and gloom as you may expect. Get some good quality mouthwash and rinse regularly to help prevent mouth sores. Hope I haven't overloaded you with info but you will be fine. Best wishes.

Thanks that's really helpful,  my hubby is coming with me so he can carry bag of snacks etc you've put my mind at rest thank you 

Hi again Blondy . My lounge was very small with recliner chairs but I have been in some where they have adjustable beds. Just imagine you are a long haul flight to Bermuda. Once you get the first one out of the way it will be fine. Best wishes.

Hello Blondy, Good luck with your chemotherapy sessions. I had Gem/Cis over four years ago now. The lounge at my hospital was relaxed and comfortable. Once the treatment begins(painless and stress free) you can relax and let the drugs do their job. I was able to walk round, make hot or cold drinks, watch tv or use wifi. The staff come round with sandwiches and snacks at lunchtime. I wouldn’t say I enjoyed it but it was not as traumatic as I thought it would be. The nurses and staff were friendly and reassuring. If you are concerned about anything just ask. Let us know how you get on. Garviv 

Hi. Pretty much the same as garviv. But over time, extremely tired, clumsy,  slow brain. No pain.

I had my first Gem/Sis treatment 2/1/24 its a long day 10.30am to 1900. After the treatment i went back to work the next day and i am fortunate to be in a work place that look after the workers. I found that i would get up in the morning and feel ok but then your body seems to tire as the day goes on. You take the anti sickness tablets 4x a day and i found when i take them the tablets seem to to make me feel sick but that subsides after 30 mins or so. 

Good luck