Hi, I'm new to the group and on day 13 of Cycle 1 of 2 week chemo. Not had too many symptoms so far but only on 80% dose so Cycle 2 may be different. I'm trying to understand what's going on during the chemo, how long the chemo stays in the body, when I'm at the most vulnerable as my body fights back and replaces good cells. If anyone has any pointers on where to find this information I'd be grateful.
Hi
Welcome to the forum ! Glad you have your first cycle completed and seem to be doing well !
https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/impacts-of-cancer/infection
This link gives you some information on how the immune system works and how chemo impacts it ! If you skip to the bottom it says the most at risk period in your cycle!
Regarding how long chemo stays in your system I think roughly speaking it can be from a few hours to a few days depending on what agent is being used , how it is administered and processed by your body . I think they refer to them as half lives and some seem to take longer than others.
After intravenous chemo some of the signs of it definitely improved in my mum after twelve hours ! However I think some still remained although the worst was over and it could take much longer to leave your system !
I have to say my knowledge on it is very limited as it became a bit mathematically oriented with several “ halve lives” and lost me a bit but I am sure your oncologist would be able to give you a pr
er explanation!!
Hope the next cycle goes smoothly !
Court
Helpline Number 0808 808 0000
