Chemotherapy following surgery

Once you know the kind of chemo check it out on the site here as there’s lots of info.  The oncologist should run through all the practicalities including how often - you’ll need to get blood tests done before each round to check you’re well enough to go forward - I hadn’t been expecting this.  And it’s worth asking about PICC lines or how they plan to give you the chemo.  It’s quite boring sitting there and I got cold feet so pack yourself up some good snacks/puzzle books/headphones ready to entertain yourself…. I found everyone very friendly.  Make sure your bed and bathroom are nice to come home to - you may ne spending more time in both or you may not - side effects vary so much.  If you are planning on a wig it’s worth going early before it becomes a necessity and emotional.  I didn’t lose any hair for 3 weeks then it was quite sudden. Check out a charity called Look Good Feel Better for online worships on hair loss, skin care and makeup and nail care.  They have lots of advice on what to expect. I hope it goes well. 

Thank you. Will take on board all your advice x

Hi Tawnowl, I had a lumpectomy which removed my tumour but like you have to have chemo and radiotherapy due to the type. I’m 2 sessions into my chemo and I chose to have cold cap. I understand this might not be for you but it’s always worth a try. Once you have had chemo without it, you can’t go back and try it. I’ve still got plenty of hair and haven’t cut mine yet! I didn’t find it painful at all so speak to your oncologist as I’m sure they will know what will be best if you have arthritis. I didn’t get any headaches with mine at all! 
good luck with whatever you choose! 

Hi Shellbell24, what chemo drugs are you having, sounds great that you are able to use the cold cap and have your hair still. I am in to minds about it as it means spreading longer  at the hospital. I will speak with my oncologist and see if I will benefit from it with my treatment.

Hugs from cuffcake x x x x x

Hi Cuffcake, I’m having 4 lots of EC then 4 lots of Paclitaxl. I have lost some hair but it’s still enabled me so far to just wear a head band as I have enough hair that I don’t look like a cancer patient when I go out! 

Hi thank you for responding. I'll see what the oncologist says about protecting my jaw from the cold. As it stands I'm glad I've gone for a short hairstyle now, should have done it long ago but if I can try and keep my hair that would be great. I suppose I could always try for first few sessions and if I'm unable to tolerate then give up, as you say can't go back on decision once treatment has started. x

Definitely worth asking and definitely worth trying. I guess we never know how we will react until we try! Glad you went for the chop, I wish I did it now!

Had my appointment today. I will have a picc line. Got to have 3 cycles of EC and 3 of Docetaxel. Followed by radiotherapy then 1 year of herceptin. No start date yet as got to have heart tests etc first Asked about cold cap but after talking through have decided against it due to my jaw arthritis, my arthritis is particularly bad at the moment and chemo alone will probably make it worse. On a positive note I've got an appointment on Monday for a wig consultation 

Well it sounds like you have a good oncologist who’s made clear what your treatment will be which is great! At least you know you will lose your hair so can prepare for it, I can’t believe you’ve got a wig appt already, I’m a month into treatment and still haven’t had one! Make sure you enjoy trying on all types of wigs, maybe go for  a new style! Good luck with everything x

Hi

I had mastectomy in July. I have 4x EC and then 4x docextal.  I am starting Dox tomorrow.  I have capped 4 times.  It ls not  easy but doable.  I have lost around 60/70% of my hair.  It’s very thin and still sheds but I do not have bold patches.  I still have a ponytail and get away with wearing a hat and so far dont look like a patient.  I think it has helped.  The best thing to do is try and if it’s not for you then you have tried.

Best wishes.  T x