My treatment plan was changed so am having chemotherapy with Carbo & Paclitaxel upfront due to concerns about some stray cells post hysterectomy. I’ll then have Radiotherapy afterwards.
I received my first doses on Thursday and since Saturday the pains in my limbs have started, my appetite has massively reduced and I’m feeling very sorry for myself.
My Oncologist told me to expect some pain but I’m not sure what level I was expecting it at, told to take paracetamol & Ibuprofen but not really lasting until the next dose is due.
Have others experienced similar and what pain killers did you take? Any other tips on managing the side effects greatly appreciated.
Thanks
Hi Red_Bull3
I am sorry to hear that you are having some side effects from your chemo.
My chemo was the same as yours and I also had bad pains in my limbs and in my lower back. My consultant said it was from the paclitaxel. I found that paracetamol and ibuprofen was not enough so I contacted my 24 hour cancer line and was prescribed stronger pain relief. That did help. With each cycle I had similar pain but it only lasted a few days.
With any side effects it is good to keep a note in your diary and then when you have your review they can go through them with you. You can also call your hospital number at any point and I found them helpful. Medication could be organised if needed and sometimes it was just a bit of reassurance.
You can also give the Macmillan Support Line a call and talk to one of the nurses if it helps.
I hope that the side effects ease soon. For me it was the first week post chemo where I felt worse and then things improved by the second week.
Jane
Hi Red_Bull3,
I started paclitaxel and carboplatin last month and also experienced terrible pain down both legs. This started the day after chemo and lasted for 5 days, although on the last 2 days it was much milder.
I couldn't cope on just paracetamol/ibuprofen/heat pads so I rang the helpline and they gave me a prescription for oramorph. This did make it more manageable and allowed me to get a bit more sleep. I found it was easier in the day when I was up and walking around so I would definitely recommend to stay active if you're able and heat pads do help a little.
Give the helpline a ring though and see if they can provide you with extra painkillers. Hope it eases soon for you.
Sally.
I would just like to say I went through the same and agree with everything others have said. I didn't want to take anything, but sometimes you do just have to. Mine was regular paracetamol and codeine. Keeping a diary will really help for future treatment. It does pass. I'm now 14 months post my last chemo treatment and although I still get some aches and pains, it's good to know the chemotherapy does work. Keep going, you will get through it.
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