January 2013 chemo group

jjdavis1019

Happy New Year January Group! I'm right here with you. Stopped by the bar on the way home from work last night and was given some adriamycin with a cytoxen chaser. Good times! Didn't feel anything different until the end of the 2nd cocktail, you know it better as "C". My sinuses had some minor burning and congestion and I felt a little buzzed or foggy in the brain. When getting home it was surprising to be so hungry which is scary because I don't want to pack on the lbs from taking the steroids. Guess it is better than the alternative but just making sure to make healthy choices. It was a relief to still feel somewhat normal after taking 3 different oral drugs and injected with the chemo cocktails. When it came to sleeping the nausea set in probably from laying down so I propt up which helped. I was freezing so coveredup to wake after a few hours a sweaty mess and couldn't remove covers because still cold, now wet. Eeeeew. This morning feels really good. I have normal energy, appetite is so so, nausea real light, and only mild headache.

Got my wig ready to go and would recommend finding a consultant in your are for www.godivassecretwigs.com as they have modern fun selections reasonably priced.



For those ahead of me did you experience diaharrea or constipation? Did you take anything to assist sleeping? Any other useful info is appreciated. Thank you all for posting and sharing as it makes the unknown more reassuring and good to meet such beautiful strong women! Hugz, Jenn

jjdavis1019

One more quick note... always interested in connecting with my triple negative friends. Since it is more rare and not responsive to hormone therapy chemo is our greatest fighter. When first hearing the diagnosis and reading about it the news was not encouraging. Feel free to contact me if had a similiar experience. I am confident now in kicking this in the butt and being cancer free but would still encourage you to share your thoughts and feelings on this topic.



Hugs -Jenn

Sandra60

Hi Jen - I am taking Xanax - .5 mg. before bed and it helps me sleeps dn then I feel more calm during the day. I will have to wean myself off it after treatments are over . Others take ambien . Thank u for the wig website "!

carlads

Good Morning Ladies,

I love catching up on everyone.  I cut my hair yesterday, I can't remember the last time I had short hair I know my husband and kids have never seen me in short hair, but they all liked it.  I figure it will be easier to buzz.  I am going for a wig fitting on Tuesday, I think I am going for a short wig to match the new cut. Then some cute little hats and I should be good to go.

I did ask my NP about Lattisse, she said yes I could use it during chemo, it may work it may not but I am going to give it a try.  Also, she did tell me about the Claritin for the Neulasta shot as well as taking Alpha Lipoic Acid 200 mg daily.  It can also help with the side effects of the bone pain. 

Also, yes please get your teeth cleaned before Chemo..  I am a Registered Dental Asst and we always prefer to do it before because of the bacteria.  You can always take an antibiotic before the cleaning but better to try and get it done before chemo starts.  Chemo can play havoc with gum tissues.  Warm salt water and soda I still think is the best protection, I plan on doing it after every treatment. 

ablydec, we start Chemo on the same day. 

Lee, I agree I think the East/West Coast thing is true.  I am in San Diego and I am having T/C.  My original was going to be TAC but it changed after my final pathology report.  They orginally thought I was TN but I showed some positive receptors in the final report  My oncologist did say that even with TN some still only go with the T/C.  Now I will also have Tamoxifen for 5 years. 

I am also trying to have my injection at home, the problem I am having is insurance, they don't want to cover it if I don't get it at my Oncologist office, but I am still trying..

I hope everyone has a good weekend and everyone who had Chemo this week I hope your SE's are not too bad.

Carla

Anonymous

jjdavis1019, Ciao bella! I must have left the bar before you, as I didn't see any of my "C" sisters there.  I drink a little more heavily, started with the benadryl, dexa, then switched to the heavy stuff, starting with adriamyacin, some cytoxen and then taxol. Although I'm confused because I thought what was being ordered up was Taxotere. Then add a pot full of pre-cursor drugs and follow-up ones. I have been taking the Ativan at night to sleep while on the steriods. I messed up when taking the dexa. Was suppose to take 2 pills the night before, morning before and night following chemo, but only took 1 pill instead of 2 yesterday morning and last night. I feel pretty good though. What have I taken today??? Geez I can't even remember at this point. Oh, I think just a docalax. I'm being preimtive in hopes to ward off the buddah belly. I was fine yesterday, so I don't know at what point the constipation may or may not be a problem.  Starting to get a little grumbling down below. I don't know if that is all the food trying to get pushed out, because like you I had a heafty appetite last night. Scared though it could be the onset of light neasue? How can you tell?

I'm thinking of switching to melatonin to help with sleep so I'm not dependent on the Ativan. Anyone using melatonin? Holy cow I feel so wired up today, even with taking only half the amount of steriods. I wish I felt this good and energetic all the time.

So I have to ask about the rinse for mouth sores.  Anyone doing this on an as needed basis, or preimtive? I started last night just to be safe.  But, I have two different directions in my "Big C" book.  One calls for 2:1 salt to baking soda. The other is 1:1.  What is everyone else hearing/following?

carlads

Skimommi,  2:1 is what I will be doing.  I will do it as preventative.. it won't hurt you even if you don't need it and I really believe it will help..

Carla

Lauren15

Hi everyone -

What an exhausting day, and it's just the beginning!  Went to see the MO today -- PET Scan and Breast MRI are good; now he decides he wants an MRI of my brain, Echo doppler test, and more labs.  Why didn't he just schedule them at the same time I had my MRI this morning, or schedule the blood test when they stuck me yesterday too.  Also, why did I have to ask him about my teeth being cleaned, and he said that is a good idea.  I called my dentist in the office (a friend of mine), and he said to ask the Dr. if dentist clearance is needed.  Doctor said no - Dentist said "find a new oncologist" - OY!!!  The MO has such a good reputation, but I'm not feeling the organization and info flowing.  So far I'm going to sit at Quest tomorrow without an appointment and ruin my Saturday for the labs I could have already gotten, Monday is a brain scan, Tuesday is teeth cleaning; wednesday is port placement, and Thursday is first chemo.  Somehow in between those I have to find a place to get an echo cardiogram test (MUST), and take off my nails (and get mani/pedi), pick up my prescriptions, and somehow fit work in too - Oh, I forgot to find a wig too.  I'm tired just thinking about it.  I'm up for any good tips.  Hope everyone had a great day.  I feel like a hamster in a cage; need a glass of wine now (while I still enjoy the tast) 

Lauren15

I haven't read the posts in the last day or two, so I must catch up.  What I've been told so far at the MO today is:  NO Latisse!!!  Nails Off, frozen peas are ok, but it's much better to get cold packs and bring them in a cooler of ice.  The doctor that puts the port in has the discretion to put it in whatever place he feels is best.

I will be on a TAC protocol (assuming the echo doppler test goes ok); they pump me with meds for naseau before and after chemo.  I need to take decadron and zantac the night before, night of, and next day.  He also said I'm going to be very sleepy after first chemo (they pump in benadryl too).

Who started already, and how is it going? 

I tried on my first wig today - I wish my hair normally looked that good.  It was almost $400 - some sort of high range synthetic hair.  There is a very light weight wig that is real hair ($900), but I didn't like the styles.  What type of wigs is everyone looking at?

I'll start reading the past posts soon, but wanted to check in.  Yay, the weekend.  I'll be working most of the time to catch up on all the lost time.

Lauren

Lauren15

Oh, and Weston is basically West Ft. Lauderdale - I'm right near alligator alley for those that know Florida.

I'm dreading wearing a wig in this heat!  I went looking today.  Liked one, didn't love any.  Synthetic vs. real hair . . . Hmmmm. . . any recommendations?

For all those hermits like me out there.  I'm actually looking forward to having an excuse to stay home and vegetate and not go out.  I haven't admitted that to anyone but this group :-)

Anonymous

Sorry for the frustrating day you've had. Honestly, I met with two MOs and neither mentioned the teeth cleaning. I learned that one from survivors.



I am on the same protocol - TAC. I can't believe how well it went yesterday, and how good I feel today. I accidentally took only one pill of the dexamethasone (similar to decardon). Was suppose to take two the night before, two the morning of and two that night. Will you also take emend? That is taken the day of, and two days after. I also did acupuncture today and am here for my neulasta shot now. Took claitin at noon for anticipatory bone pain. I can't tell you hoe much energy I've had. I had to take an ativan to be sure and sleep, and I haven't slept that good in forever!

Sandra60

Hi all- I've been suffering a bit today with a temperature ! They called in a prescription for anti biotics so that should help . My white bleed count must be so low that I have a little infection going on somewhere . Hope this is the last of my side effects - and I can have a feel good week next week !



Regarding wigs - I went to a really nice shop near my home and the prices were more in the 175 - 300 dollar range . I loved the Skye wig style .



Lauren so glad u are taking an antacid prior to chemo - that was my worst side effect . I am now on Prevacid and it works great !!

hope49

Looks like there's a lot going on today!  Just some comments on the trail above...and other tips

For dry mouth I got Biotene PBF rinse and paste, also helps keep the bacteria at bay from what it says.  I had a dental cleaning right before my surgery for the same reason, hopefully my gums are still in good shape!  I plan to use a UV light gizmo (Zapi) on my toothbrush and swap it out every week just to be safe.  I also plan to do the salt/soda rinse for extra help.

Although I'm using the cold caps I did invest in a very expensive wig as an insurance policy.  But it is custom made human hair and they detailed it exactly to my hair today, down to some roots showing.  The cost also covered several visits and 3 cuts to ease into it all if needed.  I figure if I spend that much I won't need it, and at the minimum can wear it after chemo and before I can cut/color again which is like 6 months.    I have to say I was amazed how natural the test wigs looked - I wasn't really believing it, so keep looking if you're not happy.  Lace front are the best as you don't have to have bangs and they look more natural at the hairline.

I ordered some organic, very clean products from California Baby (body wash/lotion), and special shampoo that's very mild.  Also some mineral makeup and a set of brushes that I can use without worrying if any of my current stuff is contaminated.  PH Miracle is having a fantastic closeout on their mineral makeup if you're interested phmiracleliving.com.  Jane Iredale is also very chemical free and has nice 'sample packs' that can get you through a short time...I got mine from DermStore.com.  Got to look good to feel good 

I also work with a wellness coach who is a BC survivor and she does hypnotherapy - i think this is one of the key factors for me in managing my emotions and physical effects.  I did the bilateral mastectomy on just a few Tylenol in spite of the doctor thinking I needed a pain pump (never touched it) and stronger pain meds.  I also found some great hypnosis/imagery for surgery, chemo and radiation that you can download free from the Kaiser Permanente site -  if you Google Health Journeys Kaiser you'll find the links...I play them 1-2 times a day or record my coach and it really seems to help.  Often it makes me fall asleep and that's great too - I've heard it still works on your subconscious if you listen while asleep...can't hurt if you are struggling with anxiety or relaxing.

I finally got my start date - Jan 10th...I am both excited and nervous.  I go for 'training' on Monday and then plan to do accupuncture Thurs am before my treatment.  I'll be getting 4 rounds of TC which the nurse said is Cytoxin and Taxotere (I think she said Taxotere and Taxol are the same family) I also have training for the cold caps on Wednesday and still more goodies to get for my chemo kit this weekend, so I will be busy (almost wish I had the steroids now as it seems you are all very productive on them!!)  I appreciate all the great tips the early Jan gals have been sharing -- keep them coming!

I hope all the Friday girls did great today...I prayed for you last night, and all the Jan group is now in my prayer list.  I look forward to our continued journey to back to incredible health!!!  

Skigirl72

Home from the first treatment.  Not as bad as I thought it would be. I was sad when I looked around and all I saw were women with hats and scarves on and they looked tired. I smiled everytime one looked up as I moved passed or when I was in my chair. They all smiled back. 

My dear boyfriend was with me today and he did great too. He saw me getting a bit teary eyed and grabbed my hand and quietly said, "stay strong honey, I love you". I think the anxiety set in and all of a sudden I was in this room with all these other women who had cancer. We were all there for the same reason. OMG I really am starting chemo... Then I overheard a woman, i think she was prob early 40s, say 'whatever, as long as I get to stay alive, I can deal with these side effects'... So, I cut it out and stayed strong. We were in and out in about 4.5 hours. they said it will be quicker the next time. well, I am tired and i think a nap is in order... Hope everyone had a good day.

Amrdbit

Hey y'all!

Just quickly scanned the threads and it seems I've missed a lot today. I will read thru carefully tomorrow when I'm more up to it. Just thought I'd check in quickly. I had my port put in today. It went ok. They gave me Zofran for the post anesthetic Nausea, even tho I told them that Zofran (I learned 18 years ago) gives he horrible headaches. Yep, and go figure.... My head has hurt all day. Shocking. Sigh. The port is sore, but that is to be expected, but for me the worst part is the surgical tape that is covering the whole area. It runs down the side of my neck to part way down my left boob. Having had my first and only fill in my expanders yesterday from my PS, my boobs were sore enough as it was..... Then add the tight tape. I'm ready to go crazy. Oh the pain. The tape I swear is too tight and i Need to keep it on till Wednesday morning. Chemo starts Wednesday afternoon. Ugh.



Penguin cold caps are ordered and on their way. Should get them by Monday or Tuesday. Just in time. Hopefully they will work.... or ill be buying wig. lol! Ok.... Head is pounding. I'll be back tomorrow when hopefully ill feel better.



Big congrats to everyone who started today! Hope every one is feeling well and that every one sleeps tight tonight!! Texas sized hugs and love to y'all! Xoxo Deb

LeeA

I hope everyone has a restful night.  My first go-round was Wednesday.  I was definitely on a steroid high yesterday but not so much today.  I had two doctors' appointments and then went and walked at the outdoor track at the gym.  Felt fine to pick up my husband in downtown LA but he drove home.  

Now, I'm just sitting in the recliner chair in the bedroom looking at the internet.  

Last night I took two 1 mg Lunesta and slept through the night. 

The only steroids I've had were given intravenously.  I did paint my fingernails dark blue as well as my toenails but now I've removed the fingernail polish (on the fingernails) and replaced with Sally Hansen Hardener as recommended by another poster here at BCO.org - SpecialK. 

Best wishes to everyone!

Leamitch7

Hi everyone, arrived home about 1 ago. 13 hour day, but 4 hours are driving to and from Dana Farber. Everything went fine. I feel tired but good. Beautiful views of Boston from the infusion chairs, was nice. Now I guess I'll just have to wait to see what se I get. I have a bag full of prescription for almost everything. Good luck to all my January sisters!

klaudiak

I hope everyone is feeling well, I got a cold today. Ciao bellas

Bryona

Jenn, ciao bella! I'm glad to hear that you're feeling pretty good this morning, but I'm sorry to hear about the evil freezing night sweats. I'm telling you, this cancer thing is so rude!

skigirl, Leahmitch, you made it through round one! Congratulations! I hope you're both able to rest and are feeling okay. Keep us posted. Zorina, I hope everything went well for you, too.

Deb, why don't doctors listen to us? Ugh. I mean, obviously you don't know as much about your reaction to Zofran as they do. Grumble, grumble, grumble. Okay--I'm going to adjust my attitude. Maybe they thought that a nice, big, fat headache would distract you from the discomfort of the tape...? Nope, I'm not buying it. They're just stupid-stubborn sometimes... bless their hearts... 

LeeA, glad you were able to sleep. I have to admit, I was a bit worried about our little crack monkey.

Carla, it's great to "see" you. I'm pretty sure we need a picture of the new 'do. Share, please! 

klaudia, what rotten timing! Not like a cold is ever pleasant, but the universe could at least have let you have a healthy weekend. Phooey.

Lauren, wow, what a day! Hooray for clear PET and MRI, but what a whirlwind! I'm surprised your MO wants brain MRI, too. Did he say why? And did you really say that YOU have to find the place for your echocardiogram? Really? Maybe I'm just spoiled, but that seems crazy to me. Well, I hope that glass of wine that was calling you brought a friend with it. Wine is excellent company for a hermit!

Sandra, I hope those antibiotics work for you and that fever resolves. How are you feeling?

hope, thanks for the tips about the Kaiser hypnosis/imagery downloads.

And, I have to say, wow! I'm endlessly astonished by how much information I'm getting from all of you. I'm counting my blessings every day for having found you. Hugs to everyone!

vas4554

Hello Ladies I will be starting Chemo on Jan. 8 2013 Im a little nervous but after the last past month and a half being diagnosed Nov,21 2012  first the biosopy the lumpectomy then the testing then the core being put into my chest for the chemo getting the results of the testing thank god all (negitive) Im beyond being scared anymore,..Finding this forum n hearing everyones stories Im greatful to beable to come hear and have the feeling of not being alone anymore....My family n friends are wonderful thats a positive....But to beable to open up with woman going threw what your going threw is a positive in a special way.....Thank You 2013 Chemo Group

Zorina

My first treatment (sorry this is long, I just know how much some of this info would have helped ease my fears)

1. Met with doctor and requested a lower dosage of steroids.  She agreed, but I would be watched carefully. 
2.  Started treatment with a full bag of fluids and the steroids.  (I had been drinking fluids heavily all day, so I got to parade around the room with my shiny silver staff a lot.)

Other patients:  This treatment takes place in the doctor’s office and is not limited to breast cancer.  It was generally quiet, but there were occasional interludes of light chatter.

Lesson 1:  Drink fluids! Drink Fluids!  There was a gal that arrived in horrible shape.  Apparently, she had nothing to eat and very little to drink since her treatment the day before.  They pumped her with fluids and the change was remarkable.  If you cannot drink anything, then call and request IV fluids. 

3.  First drink of the day: Strawberry Daiquiri!  The Adria went in smoothly, which I was not expecting. 

4.  Second drink of the day: Vodka with a Benadryl and steroid chaser.  The Cytox had been only dripping for a few minutes, and the area around my port was feeling itchy.  It was a really minor think, so I asked DH to look at it and the nurse heard me talking from the other side of the room.  She had me disconnected and the line flushed so fast that I feel really safe that I won’t be forgotten.  She said that she has never seen a reaction on the first treatment.  Once she flushed the line, the itching stopped and the redness on my chest and neck disappeared.  The doctor order more steroids (with a certain motherly, I told so), but she did not order the full dose at least keeping to my wish to limit steroids as much as possible.  I also got a strong dose of Benadryl.  FWIW,  I am glad to know that I have a Dr that is listening to me even though it is contrary to her opinion. 

Lesson 2:  If something feels even remotely strange, call out for the nurse immediately.  When they started filling me with more steroids, I was getting a really minor burning feeling.  I muttered something and she was there faster than you could blink.  She removed and then reinserted a new needle which cleared up the problem. 

FYI:  Afterwards, I was starving and imagining pizza or a burger.  I was worried I would have regrets, so I asked the nurse. She advised against it,  and said that anything with a lot of grease could be regrettable.  She recommended eating at home where I could know for certain that there wasn't a lot of grease in the food.  By the time I was done with all that Benadryl,  I was bit too groggy to go out anyhow. 

Last Night:  I managed to sleep much of the night through, and I suspect that I owe it to Benadryl.  I did alternate between hot and cold throughout the night.  I seemed to sweat more when I was cold. Go figure!   I moved out to the couch to keep DH from having to deal with my antics and was glad that I did.  I was tossing and turning, ripping covers on and off…completely crazy. 

This morning:  I am definitely a bit wired, but otherwise feel normal.  I’ve taken my normal morning meds (I have epilepsy, and I consider that medication highly important)  and sipped some coffee.  My stomach is fine, so I am going to eat a little and take the Emend.  I am trying to take it slow and easy on my digestion system.  

Later, I will run up to the Pharmacy and get more dexa—my anti-nausea drug (emend) is more effective with it.  A pill that costs $100 should not only make me beautiful, witty and charming but allow me to avoid steroids!  I suppose the steroid will also keep any allergic responses away, but this weekend is going to be far more challenging than I want it to be.  Crazy,  I know,  why would someone be more anxious about the steroids than the chemo?  The devil you know v. the one you don't, and steroids are my devil because I have a really low tolerance.

Additional Feedback:

Jdavis – I was cold and sweating or hot an sweating last night, too!

Lauren15  - Our ‘social’ calendars fill up rapidly, don’t they?  I was getting a second ultrasound the day before thanksgiving because the MRI found something.  Thankfully, the ultrasound was clear.  Just a fibroid.  Don’t sweat the small stuff and only focus on what needs to be done today.   Write things down, too.  I was forgetting all sorts of things.  Your first chemo appointment will go very smoothly—these places work like clockwork.

Skimommi – Melatonin is on my doctor’s list of things that I should not take, so you may want to discuss the melatonin with your doctor. 

Skigirl72

Hi everyone, I hope everyone is doing well post happy hour. I slept great last night (ty Ativan). Ate a small breakfast an took the Emend/dexa. then later I will take all my daily stuff (multi, Vit D, lycopene, prilosec, Cal-Mag-Zinc, colace)...

I bought a 3L jug of Poand Spring water and labeled it 'mine' so the man and boy in my house wont tap from it. Thats seems to me the only way to keep track that I'm drinking enough.

My nurse had me chew on ice chips during the adriamycin to discurage cell damage in my mouth (for sores and thrush). and I have a salt/soda mix my my sink for 4/5 times a day rince and gargle.

If I didn't have cancer, I'd be the healthiest chick on the street right now...lol

Skimommi- I've taken melatonin 2.5mg off and on to help me sleep. Being that is a natural element in your body I would have your doc give you a specific reason why you shouldn't take it. Don't settle for the generic answer of 'well we just want to see what happends without introducing more meds... Remember they are here for you. And How are you feeling today?

Skigirl72

http://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/herb/melatonin is Memorial Sloan Kitterings info on melatonin and Cancer

Anonymous

Ciao bellas! I almost cringe to write this . . . but I am feeling pretty good (knocking heavily on wood). My appetite doesn't lack in the least, in fact until this morning I was eating heartily. I had the same feeling as Zorina after chemo, just wanted to binge.  LOL  But, although I may not be eating super light I am avoiding the greasy spoon burgers and such. My appetite is a little softer today, so just had an egg with a little spinach and a couple of slices of avocadoe today and I'm full. Got pretty tired last night, so I didn't take anything to sleep, but slept fairly good. At least as well as I typically do. The air seemed extra dry though, and I woke up several times with a dry cough out of no where. Turned on the humidfier and kept water by the bed. Had a wierd heavy feeling in the middle of my chest last night.

Funny how the docs suggest laying off everything, and the canned answer is becuase they just haven't studied it enough. That is why I don't take anything now except the Vit-D and claritin. Ho-hummm.

Well, I am actualy off to do some snowshoeing with my 11 year old DD and girlfriends. Hope everyone has an uneventful, low SE day!

Sandra60

Hi everyone - well after I dose of anti biotics and some Tylenol and ibu to take my temp down - I am finally starting to feel better !

Here are a couple of things to watch for and not do after chemo

1). Avoid acidic and high fat foods - go with avocados , bananas , lean turkey or other meats

I had terrible acid reflex which is in control now thank goodness !

Ski mommy - - that Heavy feeling in your chest may be a sign of an acid stomach - nip it in the bud with immediate relief mess like gaviscon and then if it is rally bad start on a once a morning Prevacid pill . I will need o take prevacid 2-3 days prior to my next chemo to ward off this se next time .

2). Do not eat popcorn ! I think I may have gotten this infection whena popcorn kernel got caught in my sensitive gums and then festered .

3). Drink lots of water - at least 6 regular sized water bottles a day- probably more.

4) eat smaller more frequent meals

5) try a stool softener if u have a problem there - should see results in a couple of days

6) keep I immodium on hand too for opposite problem

7) my husband for me biotene mouth spray yesterday and I love it - relieves dry mouth and helps with gum tenderness and soars



Vas5445 - we are here to help . Please do not be nervous about the chemo - they have so many good mess to prevent the side effects now you will be just fine ! . The chemo day was almost enjoyable for me - in a sun lit room WHA fountain outside I could look at and warm blankets and snacks being offered up . The nurses will take good care of u !



I just downloaded to my iPad "Chemo - secrets to thriving by Roxanne Brown . She has great suggestions and also a "favorites " and shopping list at the end of her book

hope49

Sandra - thanks for all the great tips!  I appreciate the note about popcorn, one of my favorites, so I will have to steer clear.  Does anyone know in terms of the eating habits, is that throughout treatment, or just a few days before/after???  One of my BC mentors also said she often just opened a can of chicken noodle soup and doctored it up with kale, garlic and turmeric all great cancer fighters...easy to make, comforting and healthy for the most part.

skimommi - don't feel bad about feeling good - it definitely helps me keep positive about this and that I can feel that good, too1  Not sure I'll be out snowshoeing, but good to hear an hour on my eliptical or treadmill is not unrealistic.

Now I'm off to find another new deoderatn...my husband and I agree the one I'm using now gives off a medicinal scent...actually I have noticed that since the surgery and was wondering if the expanders gave off some kind of smell but I couldn't find anything to substantiate that, so now I'm looking for something called Pit Putty that's very organic and naturally scented..I'll let you know how it works.

Have a great day, friends!

LeeA

Ditto on the popcorn.  Bad idea.  Had some yesterday.

carlads

Sounds like everyone is doing well. 

Sandy, so glad you are feeling better.

Everyone have a great day and few SE's.

Carla

karenneedshope

Hi ladies - I'm brand new to this group and have just had my first round of chemo this past week.  I'm on the ACT cocktail - four treatments with A and C and then 4 of the T. My side effects weren't too bad I guess - slightly quesy, some heartburn and indigestion, a nagging headache and extreme fatigue. I just slept for three days waking to eat a bit and drink lots of water. Has anyone experienced mood swings with chemo? I had a couple of weird moments -one minute I was fine and the next just broke down crying. Crazy! So happy to have found this group!!

LeeA

Hi Karen, welcome! 

Did you have the steroid high the day after your first TX?  My first TX was Wednesday (January 2).  Felt great the 3rd but felt the slowdown starting late Friday afternoon.  I'm feeling queasy today - just had a piece of Gin Gins candy that came in my chemotherapy envelope.  Of course, I'm taking the anti-nausea meds every eight hours - almost to the minute. 

I had a weird moment a couple of hours ago.  Suddenly teary for no real reason whatsoever.

karenneedshope

Hi LeeA - I didn't have the steroid high that the other ladies have written about. I wish I had! I was so fatigued that all I did was sleep. I'm sorry that you're feeling quesy - what anti nausea drugs are you on? I found it helped to stay well hydrated - and to try to flush the toxins out of your body. That is if you can stand to drink anything. My doc gave me compazine and ativan. I've heard that Benadryl helps too and makes you sleepy, but I've not tried that yet. My biggest issue was a bad headache that lasted three days. Ouch!! Hang in there - it will get better - or so I've been told!!