First EC session Thursday

Hi Sparkleandshine, I had 3 cycles of EC and felt OK, with just minimal side effects. I did get constipation just after treatment, due to the meds. They gave me laxido to sort that out. Then it would go the other way and I would get diarrhoea, so they then gave me different meds. Apart from that I felt quite well, walking 2 1/2 miles every day, even the day after chemo. I still managed housework and cooking, but did take an afternoon nap as I got more tired than usual. Good luck on Thursday, hope all goes well. Xx

Hi Sparkle and Shine

Thanks for your post. 

I had 4 fortnightly rounds of EC last year.

I think everyone's experience is different. But I found the side effects kicked in after 48 hrs. I had a pretty tough time on EC. That doesn't mean you will! And I'm still here!

I'm self-employed too and didn't work during my EC chemotherapy. I took things really easy, went for daily walks whenever I could and allowed others to look after me.

It makes sense that you haven't booked in any clients, you will have more of an idea what's possible, once you begin.

Feel free to ask any more questions. 

I wish you well with your treatment and beyond. Shaka

Dear Shaka, thank you so much for your reply. Please can I ask did the side effects come on very quickly without much warning or was it a slow process that began after 48 hours, what side effects did you find the most challenging xxx

Dear Daisy 24, thank you so much for your reply. I am hoping I will be one of the lucky ones that is not too effected but at the same time planning for the side effects just in case xxx

Definitely a good idea to plan in case of side effects, as everyone is different. You may find the need to rest much more than usual, so don't put yourself under any pressure. I'm already retired, so didn't have to worry about work issues. Also my EC treatments were only every 3 weeks, so not too bad. Hope all goes well for you. Xx

Hello

i had 3 EC and 3 Docetaxel. Out of the 2, EC was tolerated far better. For the first 48 hours I felt as if I had a bad hangover. Slightly nauseous and headachey and a bit tired. I also had mild constipation, but that lasted 2 days. My appetite was fine. My treatments were 3 weekly, and by the last week I felt totally normal. I had a bit of breathlessness but that did not prevent me from walking the dog. I just took things easier and asked for help when I needed it. Docetaxel was a whole different ball game. I am 62 and retired.

Dear Lovely Louis thank you so much for your reply, I am finding it helpful to see how others are after treatment, sending lots of love xxx

You're welcome, I think they came on slowly and cumulatively in my case. Unfortunately, mine was particularly severe after my second round. I don't wish to cause any more anxiety by saying too much! 

My overriding belief is that in spite of the side effects,  we can do it. Even though I struggled, the whole chemotherapy experience was not as bad as I'd feared. No-one would choose it but we do it because we feel we must and we come out the other side. 

Sending all the positivity I can. Shaka

Hi Sparkleandshine

Hope your feeling ok.  I had my first EC plus Pembro on Friday following 12 weekly treatments of Pembro, Taxol & Carbo.  I felt ok over the weekend but last night started feeling tired.  Feeling quite spaced out again today and legs feel like jelly but otherwise not too bad.  I was given new anti sickness and took the last 4 yesterday morning so far no nausea today which I'm very relieved about.  Hopefully this feeling will pass soon and I can go for some walks which always helps.  Good luck and stay well x

I'm due to start  my first cycle of 3 in the 28th .

Hopefully I'll have minimal side effects  like you.

But we will get through this ladies we are strong .

Good luck everyone that is on this journey xx