Chemo Side Effects

Colleenroberts913

I'm 34, triple positive breast cancer and having taxotere, carboplatin, herceptin and perjeta. I have lost 20lbs and just had my third treatment. Weighing in at 118lbs I feel lost and weak. My tastebuds are completely gone, no appetite, all food and drink tastes like cardboard and certain smells make me want to vomit. Every treatment I have a new side effect pops up. This is so hard and I need help. No one I have spoke to has had these dramatic taste changes. Is there any relief in my future

salve777

Hi Colleen,

In January, I started my treatment with Herceptin and Perjeta only. My medical oncologist decided to give me standard chemotherapy in May to avoid/minimize the risk of recurrence and metastasis. This time, Carboplatin and Taxotere were added to the mix of treatment. Herceptin and Perjeta only didn't give me any side effects at all except for dulling of my hair. My hair lost its shine and became brittle. Carboplatin plus Taxotere made me lose my taste. I crave for certain foods but they don't taste right. In fact, a day or so after infusions, I don't have any appetite. I drink lots of water and rely on Boost for nutrients. I also eat bananas and animal crackers because these two have taste. My nurse practitioner advised me to eat what I can. I had my fifth infusion last week and this time, my health care team decided not to give me Carboplatin because it causes anemia. They want me to finish the infusion without delay. I have been delayed for a week for my fifth because I had blood transfusion.You are not alone on dramatic taste changes. I suggest that you have to eat what you can during treatment. Drink plenty of fluids. Take zinc for taste. I also lost several pounds. Right now, I am focusing on my last infusion. I have to get there somehow. You can do it!!!!!!