Bad side effects.....is it just me!

Hi, I chose not to have the Docetaxel and went for 12 weekly dose of one beginning with PEX, sorry can't spell it. But that gave me a taste in my mouth, I used mouthwash that the ward prescribed. I would definitely tell your BC about your hands . Ask if you can go on the weekly dose as it's not as intense even though you have to go every week. I also was very sick on the EC, which is why I ask to change on go on the weekly as well. I wish you all the best xxxxx

Thank you, for your reply.  I have tried to use the mouthwash but that just make me heave then sick.  Its just so annoying because I have to call the Emergency Assessment Unit and they tell you to hang on and someone will answer but when your 3 in line you think aw thats not too bad but no you end up holding for over 3 hours and when you finally speak to someone they tell you to go in.  I know they are busy but it really puts you off calling them cos once you go that's another 5 hour or so wait, but I will call them as the rash and blisters on my hands are getting worse.  Thank you for the recommendations, as I thought what I am given is what im stuck with I wasn't aware there are alternatives xx

I think you should go and sort out hands as soon as possible. Neuropathy is one of the long term issues and needs to be stopped early.

Yes I think your hands definitely need to be looked at, I know it's a pain all the waiting and wondering should I call. But definitely this time. Also I was dropped down to 75% of chemo to help me cope as well, once you get seen tell them everything and ask for another appointment with your oncologist because of this. 

I will be thinking of you, let us know how you get on xxxxxx

Hi Kel1706 

I am sorry you are finding Docetaxol so tough, especially as you also had a bad time on EC. Hopefully your symptoms improve somewhat before your next cycle. You will have a review with your oncology team before your next cycle and they may be able to help you with additional drugs to reduce side effects or perhaps a dosage reduction.

Unfortunately most chemo drugs affect your taste and it’s a case of trial and error to find out what still tastes normal. I remember finding the acidity of things like orange juice and tomatoes really difficult, whilst lemon was something that worked for me. Problems with hands and feet are also common. Do mention the numbness to your team as peripheral neuropathy can build and can be a permanent problem. Lots of moisturiser might help with the peeling. 

 Louise53 mentions Paclitaxel, which is a similar drug and often given weekly. Whilst a weekly drug involves a lower dose each time, which might be easier to tolerate, it can also be relentless as there is no time to recover before the next dose. I have no idea whether it would be an option for you but it’s worth having the discussion. 

Hi

You have my sympathy. I had 3 EC which wasn’t too bad. Docetaxel absolutely floored me though. After one infusion I had to have a dose reduction. Whilst I didn’t get peeling skin, I did have a lot of mouth issues. But, there is light at the end of the tunnel and things will get better. My neuropathy was short lived as well. Good luck.