Started chemo

Hi, I was just about to post about chemo and saw your post. From my limited knowledge it seems it is a very individual experience. I have had 2 treatments out of 6 of FEC T so am currently on fec and will have 1 more then the 't' bit which I think is some sort of taxol? Am also having filgastrim injections steroids and anti emetics.

I seem to be working my way through all the side effects so nausea, constipation, mouth soreness, headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, sleeplessness,  acid reflux, enlarged glands, hearing loss (temp), hot flashes, stiff muscles, palpitations then had low temperature and was hospitalised overnight given antibiotics and released. Oh then there's the hair loss, dry skin etc. Ah and chemo brain.....

Now having said that all of these side effects in my experience have been helped if not totally alleviated by either medications or other changes. For example pre chemo making sure I'm hydrated and take a laxido (stool softner) then keeping hydrated with additional laxido when necessation stops the constipation. The nausea is managed by eating little and often using additional anti nausea meds as prescribed, eating ginger containing  products etc I tried the acupressure wrist band too which did seem to help but got too tight. 

It was also suggested that I may be having a reaction to the filgastrim so maybe not everything is chemo related. 

I don't think that everyone's experience of chemo is the same though. I was going to post today as I have just had an email from a friend who had breast cancer years ago and went through chemo too. Her experience was very different and was telling me of how she continued to work full time, run a house, kids, animals all while her partner was away working throughout her chemo treatment!!!

I am glad people can function well while on chemo and can do so much but I have to say I can't.  I refuse to beat myself up about it though. 

I am happy to do what I can and be happy with that. I'm not going to turn this experience into a competitive sport!!!!

I genuinely hope your experience of chemo is positive and manageable but if you are struggling with anything speak up because often there is something that can be done to help. I was given various numbers to call for advice and am never shy to check out a symptom to see if it's 'normal'.

Big hug

X

Hi Again,

Just realised forgot to say that over the 3 week cycle things do get easier for me weeks 2 and 3 so less side effects. Sorry! That's my chemobile brain kicking in!

Hi there,

I don't know if you both have noticed, but there's monthly Chemotherapy thread on this forum where lots of us post. The first post in the thread has lots of advice on helpful hints posted by people too. x

Hi thanks for your reply , 

   Wow you really have some side effects haven't you , well I'm only on day 2 after my 1st lot got another 5 to go I dong feel too bad today just abit off suffered with really bad heartburn last nite though and stomach ache and during really sleep,  I've still got tablets for the sickness,  I'm dreading next week coz that's when I have been told I'll get more side effects but like you said everyone's different . I'm not sure what chemo I'm having I'll did ask yesterday but I've forgot all ready lol I'll ask again . 

I'm glad your not beaten yourself up about it , keep going and doing what your doing !!! 

Big hug xx

Oh thankyou I'll check it out xx

BI hope
Just to let you know that, other than constipation, side effects for me post 1st EC are minimal. I am more tired than normal and feel a bit odd but other than that feel not too bad.
I hope you're one of the lucky ones whose side effects are manageable...and that mine don't get worse!

Sam X

Hi Blhope.

Looks like we are on the same journey so maybe we can help each other through. I had my first EC chemo treatment today. Almost relieved to get to this point as it has been a long worrying wait. Actual treatment was fine and so far - a few hours later - no ill effects . We will wait and see!!!!!!! I am very slightly lightheaded but maybe because I am looking for something. 

So all the best and hope you don’t have uncomfortable side effects.

Jojodot

Also forgot to say the September Chemotherapy chat is very supportive. I followed the August one and found all the girls on there were lovely girls who shared and supported each other. Hope to find them on September thread now I have started treatment.

Jojodot

Hi 

This is the link to the September Chemo Chat thread for anyone who feels it may be of some help.

Hope the chemo is kind to you, G n' J

Hi Jojodot

Alot of us are still here .

If you fill in your Profile people can read your story and connect If they on same plan or just cos they want to lol

Hope your treatment going ok 

Margaret x