Tiredness after radiotherapy and chemotherapy

Hi Dramalady

I felt fatigued for a long time after my treatment finished. I had chemo first and then the radiotherapy. I would say it was a good 6-12 months before I felt more me again and was able to do more. I still get the odd day of fatigue now- 2 1/2 years post treatment. Its a tough treatment and takes time to recover from. 

So yes, normal to feel fatigued for many people. 

I also had my chemo drugs reduced due to developing peripheral neuropathy symptoms. I was told that reducing them would not have a big effect for me. It was the paclitaxel they reduced- I believe the carboplatin remained the same. My consultant said it was the carboplatin that does the main treatment. She said it was like a cake- the carboplatin was the cake and the paclitaxel was like the icing. 

I am not sure about the appointment letter and I know things can vary between hospitals. I can understand why you are worried but try not to read to much into it yet. 

Good Luck for the appointment. We are here in the meantime. The Support Line is there too, if you feel like chatting it through would help.

Jane

Thank you for your quick reply...yes they are the same drugs that I had in my chemotherapy.  I struggled all of the way through my chemotherapy despite the reduction...I wasn’t sure I’d get through it but the staff were absolutely lovely I couldn’t have asked for more.  It’s good to hear the tiredness and fatigue is normal..I’m so pleased to hear you have recovered bless you.  Being diagnosed with cancer is one of the worse things ever and it can be a very long and painful journey for many of us xxx

Hi Dramalady

As you'll know everyone is different and, of course, will react differently.

I think I was more tired with the radiotherapy, which I had first, as the travelling every day didn't help.  I'm still going through chemo and have had the odd day of lethargy but otherwise OK so far. 

Good luck for you appointment.

H 

I rang the bell on January 8th I am 59  ..I am ..I  was diagnosed last April , I recieved  23 external radiothery then 2 Brakytherapy..then 4 chemotherapy..I am  still exhausted at times it just hits and literally knocks me off my feet .. talking about feet they  hurt so bad due to my neuropathy ..flare ups can be so painful ..my plaxi was reduced by  20 % also on my third treatment ..

Taking one day at a time ..no CT scan for me yet not seeing consultant until approx  June ..

Best wishes