Starting chemo

It is nerve-wracking going for that first one! I shaved my hair off ahead of chemo and didn't cold cap so can't offer any advice on that. However I can say that the actual appointment itself was much better than I expected. I took tea bags (I like herb tea!) and something to eat, just a snack. I also had a big scarf that I could use as a throw in case I got cold.

They really look after you and I found everyone absolutely great and were so good at judging people's mood. I was anxious at first and they talked me through everything, but actually I also just had a nice chat to them all.

I had EC-T and they have to inject the EC by hand rather than a drip, so you end up talking to them and I had quite a few laughs there.

The EC made me feel a bit 'whooshy' straight away but you're fine to walk around and back to the car!

Obviously you can't drive and make sure you take it easy afterwards while you see how your body handles it. I made the mistake of trying to do a few things and ended up vomiting. After that, I just took it really easy after each cycle. I would go to bed for a few hours and let my body process it all.

I really recommend keeping a diary of side effects. I found it invaluable to look back in subsequent cycles to see what I was feeling last time. It will also remind you what your side effects were when you have you appointment with oncology before the next cycle. They can prescribe things to help. I got much stronger anti sickness meds and also stuff for constipation which I had quite badly the first few days.

What chemo are you getting? 

Hi Ratty1, I have recently finished 6 rounds of chemo, FEC-T & wore the cold cap for all the sessions. It is uncomfortable but very doable if you can distract your mind.  Take some paracetamol beforehand along with your anti-sickness. Also take lots of magazines & snacks as you are there for a while. The nurses are lovely & will look after you & get you through it. I have thick shoulder length hair & have kept the majority of it. I did lose alot of hair & it thinned out above the ears where the cold cap doesn't reach but I still have alot left. The cold cap doesn't work for everyone but it's definitely worth persevering with if you can. You can stop it at any time but can't start it half way through. Also take a beanie hat with you as your hair will be damp afterwards. As bestthebreast has said it's a great idea to keep a diary of how you feel. Listen to your body & snack & drink plenty. Hope this helps. Feel free to ask any questions. Wishing you lots of luck with your treatment xx

Hi, I have done 5 cycles now and honestly have managed really well, worked full time (albeit from home) all the way through.  I shared my main hints and tips in a blog, check it out as it might help.  Best wishes x

https://community.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-blogs/b/one-life-live-it/posts/chemo-side-effects---hints-tips