Chemo Newbie

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Hi All,

I expect that everyone will have had some or other experience of these questions so I would appreciate any thoughts!

Firstly, days 7-14. Husband wants to wrap me in cotton wool (which I do understand) and is effectively banning visits from our daughters just in case they have picked up any bugs. I know many of you will have children living at home with you so that would be completely impractical! How do you manage this?

Secondly, what to expect from chemo. I had my first session last week. Started experiencing abdominal pain and aching legs after a couple of days whichI ignored thinking that it was chemo effects. Ended up in A&E with high temperature and am now on antibiotics! Luckily no neutropenia at that stage though. How on earth do you know what to expect?

Thanks, this will all become second nature eventually!

Best wishes,

Nell

FormerMember over 5 years ago

Hi Nell. I'm on taxol/carbo and have mild aching on day 4-6. As for day 7-14, I stay at home, and keep away from any family with colds/sore throats etc, especially my 16 month granddaughter. Apart from that, I feel fine, boredom being the worse. I take my temperature daily which has always been normal. The first chemo, I was paranoid, then I explained some of the sensations etc to my Oncologist, who told me they were completely normal. Since then, I try not to worry (which isn't always easy) but it does get better. I have no.4 chemo tomorrow. My treatment is going well, so it is worth it. You will be OK. My best wishes, Jan. x.

Nell Beancounter over 5 years ago in reply to FormerMember

Hi Jan,

Thank you so much for your reply. That all sounds eminently sensible - One of my daughters has two small children and the other two daughters are both teachers so boundless opportunities for germs! I am normally quite laid back so I was really surprised by how much I panicked when my temperature shot up. With hindsight I should have phoned my specialist nurse for reassurance before it got to that. I am so pleased that your treatment is going well, that is really encouraging to hear. I am also on taxol/carob with a side order of avastin from the get go, with surgery planned after three cycles if all goes well.

Best wishes for chemo tomorrow,

Nell x

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