Starting Chemo October 2009

Options
1…3132343637…113

Comments

  • micheleboots
    micheleboots Member Posts: 1,993
    edited November 2009

    Meredith,  Love the new look.  You have a great head for being bald...Rock that look..I find that I like having no hair.  I go out in public with no hat, since they itch me, and only get a few stares..I was thinking if getting a henna tattoo as well.  we shall see.

    michele

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • txstardust
    txstardust Member Posts: 599
    edited November 2009

    Scooby - I've had a cough for the last 6 weeks.  It is kind of a dry cough, but very annoying nonetheless.  I don't know if it's a S/E of anything, but just wanted to let you know I'm experiencing that as well.  My doc gave me some cough suppressant meds which seem to be helping, I think they're called Tessalon Pearls?  They didn't seem terribly concerned about the cough once my fever disappeared.  Can't hurt to bring it up to the doc/nurse anyway.

    Michele, you're so brave to go out with the bare head!  I think once my hair has all come out (I've still got some stubblies hanging on making me look like i have mange) I may be able to do that - the hats are itchy, I agree, and I really didn't take to the wig very well.

    Peace to all... 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MaryNY
    MaryNY Member Posts: 1,584
    edited November 2009

    About the cough...one of the SEs is supposed to be dry mouth, which I think most of us are keeping at bay with frequent tooth-washing and rinsing of the mouth with Biotene or some other mouthwash. I don't like the taste of the Biotene mouthwash, but have a tea-tree mouthwash that seems to work well and is more refreshing. Anyway, dry throat would seem to go along with dry mouth since we are not producing as much saliva as usual to keep the throat tissue moist and this would lead to scratchy throat and cough. I've been doing a little coughing too but it's not so bad. Each time I rinse with the mouthwash, I gargle too and I'm guessing that is helping the throat.

    For soothing a scratchy throat, I find Ricola Natural Cough Drops good. I think they can be found in most supermarkets. Trader Joe and Costco have good prices on them.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • valeriekd
    valeriekd Member Posts: 287
    edited November 2009

    Hey Jean try not to worry - We have the best care going and they will do what they have to do to fix it. They may give u a neulasta shot to beat the infection or some iv antibios but its GOT to get better from here. I hope they have called u already but I am sure it is nothing they have not seen before! That is the good thing about going to a place where they see so much of this stuff - experience is the best teacher. But I am sorry u have to suffer this. I'll keep u in my prayers.

    Meredith I think u look great! 

    Yay to Mexico Laura- but boo to drinks (i wouldn't do it) 

    Txs I am in the same boat - I sleep like 18 hours a day - but I'll take it,

    Have fun done under and a great day in Texas- Best to all - Valerie 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MeredithK02
    MeredithK02 Member Posts: 86
    edited November 2009

    Hi Sido, I do have one of those lint-roller brushes, I'll have to give that a try.  With two cats, they're a necessity! I just got that Cancer Fitness book from the librar, so I'll have to go through it.  Last cycle I managed a couple teeny walks, but I'm feeling a lot less groggy this cycle (knock on wood!)

     Lainie,  that's so great that your daughter is here to visit.  I'm sure it makes her feel better, too.  Maybe she can mix you up a virgin maragarita!  Or not...my oncologist said if I felt like it, it'd be fine to drink.  Think I had one drink last week.

     Joanna, it is a bit fun getting spoilt at work, isn't it?  I hope you don't get too exhausted.  I have a desk job that I can easily take it easy during, but you've got sharp scissors in hour hands and probably have to pay a bit more attention!

     Jean, the only think I know about dental work is, if possible, that your oncologist knows about it beforehand.  Does your insurance have an after-hours number to call?  My nurse said to keep bugging them until you get an oncologist, which can take a while.  Why do all these lousy SE have to happen on the weekends...as if it's not inconvenient enough being a cancer patient already?

    Michele, you are rocking the buzzed look!  Is that Dr. Bigglesworth with you, there?  :-)  I've been wearing hats from softhats.com around the house and they don't seem to be itchy, but I also am going without just to get used to the look.  I'd love to see what a henna tattoo looked like, but I guess with my stubble being that color it might not matter too much anyway!

    Anyway, happy weekend, all!  I'm going to try to stay awake for some of it this time!  :-D

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • joanneasiata
    joanneasiata Member Posts: 719
    edited November 2009

    HI There

    Well

    Ive CRASHED ,Ive been feeling back to my old self for the last week ,exactly ,and now i feel like day 4 after TX ,  whats that , AND Ive got my periods as well   would my tiredness be due to low iron,? i was low to start with before chemo and now i might be lower with my periods ?, .Has anyone had their periods  after first TX ??  or maybe it was work that has made me tired  my temp is good around 36. what a bummer i just want to slllleeep

    JOJO JUST

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MeredithK02
    MeredithK02 Member Posts: 86
    edited November 2009

    Hi Joanne, I just got my period the morning of my second treatment (yesterday).  As if I didn't have anough SEs work worry about without cramps!  Yell

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • joanneasiata
    joanneasiata Member Posts: 719
    edited November 2009

    MEREDETH

    WOW so there might be more to follow ,least with mine Ive never had cramping or any other SEs ,i do feel for  you, try a hot pack on your tummy ,funny as I'm typing this and I'm getting little twinges of pain .they must be sympathy pains .

    Joanne

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MeredithK02
    MeredithK02 Member Posts: 86
    edited November 2009

    No way, no sympathy pains allowed on this board...we'd all be in awful shape!  Surprised

     I just got a new heat wrap called a Bucky .  It's a big improvement over the last microwaveable wrap I had that had started to smell like burnt lavendar popcorn! 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Sido
    Sido Member Posts: 234
    edited November 2009

    Thanks JOJO!  It's nice to have an Aussie walking buddy.  I'm also glad you are taking such good care of yourself at work and have a boss who gives you the space you need to get well.  I have a similar situation at my work and I feel very fortunate.

    lainieo, I'm so glad you are feeling better and got to see you daughter for a bit.  I'm also interested in trying acupuncture for my SEs, but since my insurance doesn't cover it I've been hesitating.  I'd be interested in how it goes for you.

    Be well everyone and have a restful (and sunny Mexican) weekend!

    Sido

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MaryNY
    MaryNY Member Posts: 1,584
    edited November 2009

    Jo Jo: I had my period a few days ago too pretty much on schedule but a lot lighter than usual. I wasn't expecting it as I was told that I would be hurtled straight into menopause. I had low iron to begin with too (11.3g/dl). I've been trying to eat iron-rich foods to raise my iron level before the next treatment. My guess is that your period on top of the fact that your WBC is low too are causing your tiredness.

    Meredith: you can really pull off the bald head look!

    Sido:  Would love to try accupuncture too. Not sure if my insurance would cover it.

    Valerie: I was feeling bad as I've been sleeping more than nine hours a night. I guess I should stop fighting it. Not looking forward to the steroids again this week and the sleepless nights. So I figure I should stock up on some sleep, hoping it will have some rollover value.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • valeriekd
    valeriekd Member Posts: 287
    edited November 2009

    Hi Ladies- i had low iron too- I wonder if the chemo doesn't zap some of that somehow- onc told me to take iron supplements but they r also constipating and g-d knows we don't need any more sluggishness - how many grapes?

    It is so noce to see everyone on the boards - Friends i love to look in on every night. Worried about Jean tho - we go to the same place- somehow it makes me feel protective of her- toothache pain is so awful all on its own let alone after a first infusion.

    Saw an old friend 2day who had a terminal CA dx 5 yrs ago and she looked great and going strong w/ NED! Such a great reunion.

    Have a great night Smile

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Hopbird
    Hopbird Member Posts: 387
    edited November 2009

    Hello ladies!

    Love the new buzzed look I'm seeing here.  About the cough, I've had it too.  Mine isn't constant, so I was just thinking Fall allergies.....but maybe chemo related too?

    And about periods.....Funny, but I started mine the day of my second Tx too...and it seems I remember reading someone on the September thread that did the same.  Strange.  BUT over a month later I would definitely be having another, and I'm not.  About the time it was due the hot flashes kicked up......I'm assuming they're related?

    Onty hasn't posted for a few days here.  Hope all is OK for her.  I think she is supposed to have her last AC tomorrow.  (She's easy for me to keep up with, we started a week apart.) 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • unklezwifeonty
    unklezwifeonty Member Posts: 1,710
    edited November 2009

    Hi Hopbird,

    I'm  fine. Thanks for asking. Yes my last AC is tomorrow.....

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MaryNY
    MaryNY Member Posts: 1,584
    edited November 2009

    Onty, it must be nice to see the AC coming to an end. I believe the SEs of the Taxol are not supposed to be so bad. Good luck tomorrow!

    Valerie, thanks for the grape reminder. I bought some yesterday for the first time since starting chemo and they tasted great. I think they had the desired effect in the nether regions too.

    Something else I've found useful -- club soda for the mud mouth. I couldn't seem to find any drink that seemed refreshing and someone on another thread suggested club soda. For the first time it was something that seemed to taste clean in my mouth. There is also a tea tree mouthwash that works better for me than the Biotene one.

    Just wondering for those people on long chemo regimens where there are multiple doses of Herceptin after the other drugs, do you wait until all of that is over before starting radiation?

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • micheleboots
    micheleboots Member Posts: 1,993
    edited November 2009

    I use club soda all the time...I find after it gets flat is tastes not to bad...a nic emouth rinse.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Hopbird
    Hopbird Member Posts: 387
    edited November 2009

    Mary, I'm one of those people and I'm not sure.  For some reason I'm thinking that it's only the chemo that they delay radiation for, and Herceptin can be given along with it, but I may have assumed that and not asked the question.  I think I'll ask about it next time I see my doctor.  The plan will be to switch me to weekly chemo and it will be a good time to ask about what is next.

    Onty......oh there you are!  Good luck tomorrow.  I know you may not be excited to get the A/C, but you'll be excited to have it behind you! 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • txstardust
    txstardust Member Posts: 599
    edited November 2009

    Hi, I'm feeling the crash, too, but it's expected as I'm entering my second week (had tx#2 last Wednesday).  I haven't gotten my period yet, and I hope that at least I can avoid the problems that come along with periods!  I was kinda hoping for that as a s/e of the chemo!  

    Onty, glad you're doing ok, and that you're almost done with the tough ones.

    Valerie, isn't it great to have those experiences of others who are doing so well?  Gives you hope.

    Well, I'm sorry I can't keep up with everyone, I swear I'm experiencing chemo brain.  i had to write a paper today and it took me darn near forever.  Much more difficult than it usually is, but my onc did say to expect difficulty with higher-order thinking.  I just hope I can make it through the semester with decent grades.

    Peace to all,

    Shelby 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • joanneasiata
    joanneasiata Member Posts: 719
    edited November 2009

    SHELBY

    Hang in there we are all holding your hand, i picture us all sometimes in a big circle holding hands and we all hold on tight to each other and we help each other stand up when each feels to weak to stand by them selfs . that helps me

    Joanne

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • txstardust
    txstardust Member Posts: 599
    edited November 2009

    Joanne,

    Thanks for that image, it's so comforting!  Aren't you up awfully early in the morning over on the other side of the world?  Get some rest!  I'm here to hold you up when you need it :) 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • joanneasiata
    joanneasiata Member Posts: 719
    edited November 2009

    Shelby

    No i love my sleep its 10.05 AM Monday here in aus two boys of at school and work  beds changed and washing is on ,and its a beautiful 25 degrees I'm thinking ill go down the beach for a walk in the water and rum my toe toes in the sand with a bag of hot chips with vinigar , oh heaven

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • unklezwifeonty
    unklezwifeonty Member Posts: 1,710
    edited November 2009

    Dear Mary,

    Radiation can be and is given with biological therapy like Herceptin and/or Avastin.

    Dear  Hopbird and TXStarDust,

    Thanks for the wishes. Hoping tomorrow's chemo and its aftermath are easy on me. Good luck to all those who will be getting chemo this week.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • RedheadPam
    RedheadPam Member Posts: 98
    edited November 2009

    Hello, ladies!  I am popping over from the November board to ask a quick question, since many of you are at my point in chemo or just a bit before....I am day 11 past first dose of TC.  I had a bad allergic reaction to the Taxotere during treatment, but Benadryl handled it. I've been doing pretty well so far, but today have a light red rash on my lower back and underarms, with just a touch on my belly. It does not itch or hurt. I have read that this is a SE that can pop up between Taxotere treatments...anyone else experience this? Benadryl seems to be making it fade, so I am torn about calling my onc's office in the morning.

    Oh, and on the hair thing, mine is falling out in bunches, but I am determined to have a "bon voyage" party with friends when I shave it, and that may have to wait until Tuesday.  Anyone have a strategy to deal with the infernal scalp itching? 

    Thanks!

    Pam

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Enjoyful
    Enjoyful Member Posts: 3,591
    edited November 2009

    I chose not to have a port placed for my TC treatments but now I'm wondering if that was a good idea.  They placed an IV in my hand for the first treatment.  My hand hurt during treatment and I later developed phlebitis in that vein.  For the second treatment they used the vein in the crook of my elbow.  No pain during treatment but now my arm above the site is getting sore and I wonder if there's more phlebitis developing. 

    Anybody have these problems?  Would slowing the drip help or should I just give up and get a port?

    E

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Scoobydoo
    Scoobydoo Member Posts: 499
    edited November 2009

    Enjoyful - I recommend getting a port.  Even though the port has some issues of discomfort, it has made receiving tx much better than the IVs.  And if you are having vein problems then you should definitely consider it.  How many txs will you be getting?  That would make a difference also in your consideration.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • Enjoyful
    Enjoyful Member Posts: 3,591
    edited November 2009

    Scooby -

    I have four more treatments to go.  I hesitate to get a port because it caused so much discomfort last time I could not sleep very well.  If I don't get enough sleep this time, I will completely fall apart.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MeredithK02
    MeredithK02 Member Posts: 86
    edited November 2009

    Hi Enjoyful, I'd definitely recommend getting a port.  Even though mine got infected and I'm taking antibiotics, I still far prefer it to getting an IV line.  My arm would always bruise and pinch.

    And Pam, I'm sure there are many higher-tech solutions, but I put a little cortison cream on my scalp when I buzzed it and it's been feeling just fine.

     

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • one-L
    one-L Member Posts: 1,110
    edited November 2009

    I do hope everyone had a good weekend.  I enjoyed my good weekend before my tx on Thursday and get to start the cycle over again.

    I just want to wish everyone tx without ses, OK I know that wont happen, but I can wish we all  have mild ses.

    Juannelle

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • MaryNY
    MaryNY Member Posts: 1,584
    edited November 2009

    Who else has treatment this week? So far I know of, or am guessing at, the following:

    Monday—Onty (AC #4, final!)

    Tuesday—MaryNY (AC #2)

    Wednesday—Snuziq (TC #3), ReneeJean (TC #3), Hollycan?? (TC #2), Suzi45??

    Thursday—Juanelle (TC #2), Dee (AC #2), Scoobydoo/Anita (T #1)

    Friday—Joanne (FEC #2)

    Clarice, Piffken probably had #2 already but didn't hear from them. Please let me know of any updates needed to the OP.

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter
  • txstardust
    txstardust Member Posts: 599
    edited November 2009

    I'm going to chime in on getting the port - I'm really glad I got one, especially after my unexpected trip to the hospital - made life much easier.  From what I understand, if you have vein issues, they have to keep moving UP your arm in order to do subsequent IV lines - that may just make your decision for you.  Hopefully, if you have to go this route, you will have a much easier time than before.  I understand how difficult it is losing sleep, it really throws everything else off.

    Good luck to all my sisters having treatment this week!  Oh, as far as the itchy head goes, once I shaved it off, the itching got much better, and the lady who shaved it suggested I use a facial scrub on it - that seems to be working very well.  I just use St. Ives.

    Take care and peace out! 

    · Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

Categories