Chemotherapy xelox / capox

Hi  Clarey03, Clare,

I had the same treatment at 73 also with an ileostomy. As you have said the side effects are not the same for everyone but a couple of things I would mention:

All though we are in summer, they say, cold will affect him after the i/v for a few days, so no cold drinks as it can affect his throat and nose. If he touches cold things he will get electric shock effects so I used to handle fridge items with a tea towel. This should wear off in time for the next session!. 

For the ileostomy output control it with loperamide (imodium) get a good supply from the oncologist. Take as many as he needs, When needed I was taking 2 half an hour before meals and 2 at bedtime sometimes. The oncologist doesn't want the chemo tablets going through whole!. Any problems with the stoma bag, keep in touch with the stoma nurse for their help.

Try to eat normally (as with a stoma) and sip liquids rather than downing a pint. If he is tired, don't fight it, have a kip for half an hour.

There is something called peripheral neuropathy that can affect your hands and feet. It should wear off on a three month treatment but the oncologist can recommend creams if needed.

Lastly, tell the oncologist exactly how he is don't just say he is fine when he isn't, if he is having a problem with any particular side effects they can treat it or, as it is only mop up they can, as they did with me, reduce the dosage.

I am sure that others will mention more things you can do but that was my experience.

Is he having a PICC line fitted, that helps avoid aching arms at the time of the i/v? 

Hope all goes well

All the best, John

Hi Clarey03 Great reply from John - here’s a link to a previous post also

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer_types/bowel-colon-rectum-cancer-forum/f/diagnosis/207876/stage-3-bowel-cancer-about-to-start-chemo---worries/1514219#1514219

Take care

Karen x

Thank you so much John got taking the time to reply, I think he’s really concerned about the neuropathy as he’s read about it being quite common. 
I coincidentally bumped in to a man fundraising for bowel cancer uk who told me to make sure he doesn’t use metal cutlery or touches any metal as his friend who went through the treatment did this .. used plastic camping cutlery and found it really reduced the side effects. 
im just trying to get as much helpful advice and information such as yours . 
my dad is a skilled carpenter and although just retired this year enjoys making planters and various other projects with wood .

thanks again . I hope you are happy and healthy. 
Best wishes 

Clare x

Thanks Karen you have been a great support to me on here from my first post.. true Earth angel 

really appreciate your time and sharing so much knowledge.