Effects of Paclitaxel

Good morning.....

I am sorry you are feeling this pain. Your oncologist is right....it is a side effect of the taxotere. If the painkillers you have don't  work....phone today and ask for stronger. A combined codeine/ paracetamol might be strong enough or there are others which contain an opiate. I can't tell you the names because I don't live in the UK and the brand names differ but the drugs are the same. The pain usually wears off after a few days but I do understand how you are feeling.

As you have some strong effects now just monitor your skin for any burning sensations particularly feet and hands. The skin may go very red and feet can be too painful to place on ground. This is a more serious reaction. Tell someone straight away. Whilst the joint  pains will diminish,  the burning can be a symtom of nerve damage. You shouldn't leave it to repair without informing anyone. I made that mistake not wanting to be a nuisance and as a result, have permanent nerve damage when my feet were tested properly last year.

I hope you feel better today but if not, please keep your medical team informed. Better to be fussy than suffer permanent problems.

Take care. Love Karen

Hey Karen,

Thank you for responding to my post. The pain is excruciating but it’s good to know it’s normal.

I have spoken to my chemo team today and they have prescribed me some stronger painkillers like you said.

At 3/4 in the morning it’s so good to know we can just post on the site and someone can help with advice

Thank you x

I am just about to have my last round - thank goodness! I have had severe leg pain, especially the first two rounds but got co-codamol from the GP which does the trick.  I have also had peripheral neuropathy which has been quite bad and caused numbness in hands and feet and unsteadiness.  I am walking with a stick for the time being.  Oncologist has reduced the dose for the last two rounds, so we'll see!  The pain, mind you, has reduced now.  Wishing you lots of luck x 

Hi there MrsHutt,

Thank you for your message. I really appreciate you sharing your story/symptoms.

I rang the chemo unit who provided me with Co-codamol which like you say really helps. Hot water bottles and warm baths before bed helps too.  I was also recommended chamomile & clove gel to rub on my joints and that’s another helpful tip (this can be bought online), a very kind friend bought it for me

it is so reassuring to here we are experiencing similar symptoms and WE WILL get through this

I am having treatment number 7 of 8 on Tuesday 

I wish you well and send you lots of luck and best wishes 

Regards,

Wendy x

Haha! I am just a few days ahead of you! I am researching ways of encouraging hair re-growth and eyebrow/eyelash remedies now!  Keep strong xxx