First Chemo 8-5-13-- How to get through side-effects

Hello Everybody--

I haven't posted in a while because I've been "going through the motions"... but I finally started chemo on August 5th, 2013.  I must say, I began the first day, and the day thereafter, with very minimal side-effects, but days 3 and 4 were very trying.  Today is the fifth day, and although I've had some tummy discomfort, the muscle aches seem much better.  I have had no nausea, just gas pains, and one episode of diarrhea today.  For the most part, I have felt like I had the flu... muscle aches, weakness, short of breath with too much exertion (walking up stairs, etc.), and today, a burning lump in my chest like when I've had GERD (heartburn)... the doctor recommended I get some Prilosec OTC for the GERD and to help with gas pains, and some Immodium in case I should get more diarrhea.  I did have some facial swelling, ankles, and hands on day 3 as well, but they have since subsided... they will give me more steroids at my next chemo visit 8-23-13 to help head this off at the pass.  I had my port placed on 8-2-13, and had quite a bit of discomfort with it before calling my physician, and finding out that I could take one 800 ibuprofen and 2 extra strength Tylenol... in addition to putting ice on it.  This made all the difference... wish I had asked before suffering all day thinking just a couple of advil would suffice.  Well, I hope I haven't given more information than anyone ever wanted to know, but I just thought I would share my experience for someone coming after me.  I've come here a lot looking for comfort and answers from people who've been there and it's really been a Godsend to me!  Hope something I've shared might be of help... everybody's different, but the boat we're all in is the same in a lot of regards...  I'll keep you posted!    Looks like I'm going to work tomorrow:)  FYI... my chemo is Taxotere and Cytotoxin... I'm on a study, (Adriamycin), but I was randomized in the 2 drug cocktail group.