1st capox treatment today

Hi BrenW

My husband has had 2 cycles of this drug. Our nurses put a hospital glove filled with hot water on the cannula for the last 40 minutes of the infusion and he also holds the glove on there for the 40 minute journey home. Generally heat seems to help with the discomfort for him and the 2nd infusion didn't hurt as much so hopefully it will be the same for you. 

Good luck

Hi BrenW It’s a horrible pain isn’t it? Is your arm really sensitive? I found a heat pad helped and I cut the toes off a pop sock and pulled it up my arm to stop my cardigan sleeve touching it! It did ease off after a few days but I was close to tears when they removed the sticky tape after my 2nd infusion so had a picc line fitted after that which was a game changer.

Thanks so much for replying. I had an electric heat pack on during the infusion but nothing after or on the way home. Note for next time to bring one!

Hi Karen yes it is! A horribly prickly sensation and the tape was not fun to take off. My infusions are luckily only every 3 weeks so I'm not sure a picc line would be practical but I'll check - and invest in some heat pads.

Hi Karen, 

I’m yet to start CAPOX (first session is planned for Friday). Does the PICC line completely stop the pain? Just debating what to take to wear home afterwards.

Rachael x

Hi BrenW,

I’m having my PICC line fitted tomorrow ready to start CAPOX on Friday, it seems to be a standard procedure at our hospital. It’s definitely worth asking if it will help with the pain.

Rachael x 

Hi Rac Yes it does and when they take your bloods on the chemo ward to check then they can take those out of the picc line canula too. Have they given you a limbo sleeve to keep it dry in the shower? 

Clothing wise just wrap up warm. Take a scarf to cover your mouth and gloves. The cold air can make your face twitch and feel a bit weird so be prepared. 

Hope it goes well

Take care

Karen x

Thank you. I haven’t been given a limbo sleeve yet but I’m guessing I’ll get one tomorrow when they insert the PICC line. 

I’ve got my scarf and gloves ready

Rachael x 

 Rac I had to ask my doctor for a prescription for mine so just check if you’re not given one? x

We have online videos at our hospital that you have to watch and it says you will be given a prescription for one, if not I’ll definitely ask, thank you.