Swelling/weight gain from chemotherapy

jacksam

Hello, my gf has completed her 4 treatments of chemo almost a month ago. She is 35. Her body has swollen since she started her chemo and is very self conscious about this. Its her whole body. Face arms legs etc. Other than this she had a very easy time with her treatment compared to many others I have read about. She has opted not to have the radiation treatment even though her doctor advised her. Does anyone know if doctors prescribe medication for swelling or do you sit it out until the side effects from the treatment abate. Thank you

muska

Hi Jack, some swelling during chemo is usually the result of steroids that are given to alleviate chemo side effects. It might take a couple of months for the weight gain to go down - obviously, one needs to watch the amount of consumed food, especially because we are encouraged to eat well during chemo and get used to it.

You are not saying how many pounds she gained. I added about six pounds and lost it all by simply slightly reducing the amount of food. Of course if she is retaining water she needs to talk to her doctor.

What concerns me more than weight gain, is that she refused radiation. Please make sure enough consideration was given to this decision.

Best