Hi I am going to be having Paclitaxel Carboplatin & Bevacizumab and just wondering if anyone as had these together , I have read all the information That I have been given but I think the advice from someone that as been through this is a lot better.
I sort of know what to expect but I am still nervous about it.
I am wanting any advice on how I can help myself feel better whilst going through this,
I want to know if protein shakes or their is anything else that as helped anyone whilst having this treatment.
Any advice is welcome
Thank you xx
Hi Flowersabove
My own cancer was endometrial so I hope its ok to respond to your post. I had carboplatin and paclitaxel in 2022. I did not have the monoclonal antibody with it.
I found the information that they give you can feel a bit overwhelming as they have to tell you everything possible that could happen in order to gain your consent and so you know what to watch out for. It is good to have some information but I would advise that you go with the flow with the treatment. Everyone is different and can be affected differently. I did have some side effects from the chemo but not by any means all of the possible ones I was told of. What I did find was that the ones I did have could be greatly helped with medication. You will have been given a 24 hour number to call for your hospital and I found mine really helpful.
Mine was on a 3 week cycle and it was mainly the first week that I felt rough and then I would improve after that.
You might find you have taste changes and I found eating little and often of anything I fancied the way to go. With any antinausea medication I found it helpful- on my CNS advice to take them around 30 minutes before eating. I didn't use protein shakes however at one point I did make fresh smoothies and also used Complan drinks. I found eating my main meal earlier in the day helped.
Rest, especially in the first week is important as the chemo needs time to work and affects the whole body. I did however feel well enough, particularly from the 2nd week to go for walks, pop to the shops and see friends.
One thing I noticed was that the fatigue build up with each cycle and it is something to be aware of. I had to pace myself- so for example if I met a friend for coffee one day, the next day I would have an easy day. Sometimes the fatigue can also come from catching up with people.
I would recommend getting an accurate thermometer and keeping an eye on your temperature and if it changes higher or lower then this would be a time to give the hospital a call. There is a risk from infections.
For me, the first one was the worst as you are not sure what to expect at the hospital and are not sure how you will be affected but once that one is done, it feel better.
I wish you well for your treatment and if there is anything you need, then you know where we are. We do also have the Support Line available everyday from 8am-8pm if it would help to talk things through.
Jane
