Starting chemo September 2014

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  • AmyG516
    AmyG516 Member Posts: 40
    edited September 2014

    Everything went well yesterday for my 2nd infusion.  Bad heahache once I got home and some nausea, took my anti nausea script and some Advil and that helped.  Just a suggestion for those of you starting- I made a note in my iPad and list the SE I had each day before I go to sleep.  It made it so easy when I met with my MO yesterday and we discussed how my first round went.  I forget so much now with my chemo brain so this really helped me. 

    I'm off to work now - hope everyone has a peaceful SE free day!!

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  • zjrosenthal
    zjrosenthal Member Posts: 2,026
    edited September 2014

    Fire, I am managing amazingly well with the A/C.  Minimal sides,  indigestion , some heartburn and fatigue but no where near what I was anticipating.  Going to lunch with my Celebrate Recovery sponsor later then a Tai Chi class.  Wishing everyone a bright sunny day on the fight cancer planet.  Love, Jean 

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  • ilovepugs
    ilovepugs Member Posts: 78
    edited September 2014

    Thank you to everyone who has the strength and generosity to come on these boards and help others out with encouragement and understanding. While I'm still finding it challenging to read some posts without feeling like crying or feeling sick to my stomach, I am trying to keep up with skimming them for all the positivity I can eke out. 

    Hugs to all, 

    Christine xo

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  • Rose0766
    Rose0766 Member Posts: 92
    edited September 2014

    for those of you that are suffering with heartburn and gas, as I am, I'm finding a combination of Pepcid complete mint flavored and gas x capsules are taking care of it, Prilosec can cause diarrhea in itself, also I read a good book today, it's called Chemo, Secrets to thriving, it's an easy read with lots of info and resources, I'm actually exercising today, maybe my bones will wake up? Have a great day everyone!

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  • HockeyCat
    HockeyCat Member Posts: 222
    edited September 2014

    Hi Amy, glad to hear your infusion went smoothly. You are strong woman, going to work a day after chemo! I feel so tired and lazy.... I'm going to support group meeting this morning, then n-shot. I told my boss and team that I'll work from home in the afternoon. Last time I overdid it and got fever for 6 days. I'm taking it easy this around.

    Hope everyone is having a good day. Hug!

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  • DaniellaD
    DaniellaD Member Posts: 273
    edited September 2014

    Hockeycat, Amy hope your infusions went well.  I had another problem with my Iv and it had to be switched the my left arm.  Now I've used that vein in my left arm 3 times.  My veins seem too tiny to withstand the taxol although I did fine during my second infusion.  The nurse told my husband that I should get a port.  I'm adamant that I don't want one.  I don't know what to do. 

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  • Amy_NJ
    Amy_NJ Member Posts: 1
    edited September 2014

    Hi Everyone,

    I started chemo Mon Sept 22, adriamyocin/cytoxan once every 2 weeks.  So I've only had the 1st dose so far.  It was so incredibly hard mentally to get through that treatment.  Sitting in the chair waiting to begin I was crying and visibly shaking.  I find this chemo process so much harder than the surgeries I've had.  Initially when I was diagnosed we thought it was early and a small tumor.  After pathology came back from the lymph node dissection and mastectomy it turns out there were multiple tumors and many nodes involved.  So here I am getting chemo and having a hard time accepting this.  I am hoping to gain some positive vibes from some of you who seem to be doing well. 

    I have a port for infusion and am so very, very glad I do.  My last iv experience 2 weeks ago was brutal.  After so many biopsys, scans with iv, bloodwork, surgeries my veins are completely tapped.  The port infusion on Monday was quick and relatively painless.  It did make it much easier on me. 

    SE I've had so far are mostly fatigue.  I sleep 10 - 11 hours a night since monday and am napping an hour or so during the day.  I am not sure if this is normal or not at this early stage.  I also find myself slighlty nauseous at times and just feeling not quite 100% well.  Yesterday I started getting some scalp sensitivity already, mostly when I touch it.  So beginning to wonder about cutting my hair short before the falling out process starts.

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  • PoppyK
    PoppyK Member Posts: 1,805
    edited September 2014

    Amy, Welcome! There are a lot of wonderful people here to help you and be beside you on this journey. My first infusion was Tuesday, so I am feeling a bit of brain fuzziness and hope I make sense. My cancer was supposed to be nothing too, and here we are together.

    The MO can prescribe anti-anxiety meds for you. There are several options available and they can take the edge off of the anxiety. You will still be able to drive and they won't interfere with your chemo drugs. You will just feel less anxious. It could be something you take continually through the treatment process, or just something you need to help you on chemo infusion day. Many, many of the women on here, including me, are relying on meds to help us think clearly and feel less anxious.

    Try not to be hard on yourself. Everyone reacts to chemo differently. Some will sail through, for others it will be a struggle. But I know we will get through this. My MO told me if I need to sleep and nap, do so. Listen to your body... it's putting up a big fight! Stay hydrated and make yourself eat. Six small meals.

    Regarding hair- My chemo nurse told me many patients experience tingling and sometimes discomfort in their hair follicles. I cut my hair into a short pixie cut. I know it will mostly likely fall out, but thought it would make the transition easier. Plus, 1 inch lengths of hair I can blame on the pets! :-) I'll cross the buzz cut phase when I need to. I was warned to not shave to the scalp because of the sensitivity. Also, I'm going to get a light weight cap to sleep in so I don't shed all over the bed.

    Hope this helps! 

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  • Rosebud1445
    Rosebud1445 Member Posts: 16
    edited September 2014

    Hi Amy NJ

    Welcome...you will find lots of information and support here.  I also thought mine was found early but was recommended chemo by my MO because of the tumw being grade 3. And stats support less recurrence with chemo added into the equation.   I didn't want a port either but after researching and talking to people I had one put in a week ago.  I get to try it out tomorrow. ..first chemo infusion.  I'm anxious but not upset maybe even a little curious to see how I'll respond.  I've weathered the surgeries,  Savi device placement and radiation well...hope it continues!   Best to all...keep your heads up and rely on God to get us through♡

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  • Tobycc
    Tobycc Member Posts: 789
    edited September 2014

    rosebud....I feel exactly the same way. I have peace knowing HE will be with me!!  Prayers and good thoughts your way

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  • Zimastar
    Zimastar Member Posts: 25
    edited September 2014

    Amy, the ladies are correct, we all handle issues differently. Try & not let this small bump in the road consume you! Stay positive. Try & find the humor in it. Rest, rest, rest! 

    As for the port, I have one. I insisted on one. My veins are really small on my left & that's all I have to offer now. The bad part for me is the heart burn. However, I'm going to start OTC meds for that earlier this time. 

    Not sure if I let you all know but Tues I did the buzz cut as my hair is falling out & I decided I didn't want that emotional factor so I just took charge. My husband doesn't like it & request I cover at all times, but the kids love it lol.

    For those on taxotere, the eye doctor told me my continual watering eyes is actually dry eyes & is a SE of taxotere. It's controllable for me w eye drops. However, make sure you get an eye exam as we're all different. If not taken care of, we can develop glaucoma. Yay for us...NOT! 

    Hope everyone is having zero to minimum SE this week. 2nd round is Tues.. Apparently Tuesdays will be my day??

    Hugs & sunshine to you all!!

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  • KayaRose
    KayaRose Member Posts: 183
    edited September 2014

    My First Post.  Hi Everyone.

    It was very difficult to actually join and post on this board.  I've been reading your posts for a week or so and found a lot of useful information.  I just kind of felt that if I didn't actually sign up, I didn't really have cancer.  Silly me.  I do have cancer and I have to face it.  Thanks to all of you, I'm starting.

    I had my annual mammogram on 9/4/14.  Thanks to the nurse at the breast center who did my mammogram, she noticed a hardened tissue area and brought it to the attention of the radiologist.  They did an ultrasound and recommended a biopsy.  The biopsy results indicated cancerous cells in both the breast tissue and a lymph node.  The next two weeks were a whirlwind of doc visits and tests - as you all know.  Bottom line is my treatment plan is chemo, surgery and radiation.  My CT scans showed no cancer anywhere else.  When I heard that news I actually broke down and cried.  I was so grateful.

    I had my first chemo tx on 9/24.  Just getting used to your abbreviations but I'm trying.  The chemo is A C every other week for 8 weeks and then Taxol every week for 12.  I will follow that with surgery and then radiation.  Such a long time.  Hard to imagine it ending.

    I get a Neulasta shot after the AC chemo.  I've made it through the first chemo and shot.  So far, only minor SE; flushed, red face and neck, slight stomach uneasiness, very tired.  My MO said more symptoms may kick in on days 3 to 5, so I'm waiting for the other shoe to fall.

    Don't want to go on and on.  Just want to join your group and learn a few things - hopefully will have something to contribute, too.  One thing would be a recommendation to those of you with heartburn.  Try Nexium.  It's OTC now and well worth the $$.  I've been taking it for about a year now having had gerd for quite some time.  Nothing worked for me like Nexium.  I tried them all - started with Pepcid, Pepcid Complete, Zegrid, etc., you name it, I tried it.  Nexium was like a wonder drug for me.  

    Thanks for listening.

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  • sybilskelton
    sybilskelton Member Posts: 77
    edited September 2014

    Hi KayaRose, welcome to the nicest club you never wanted to join.

    Although I had surgery first, I'm on the same chemo protocol as you, started a couple weeks ahead. The first round was rough, and I think the neulasta shot exacerbated it tremendously. The nurses and docs recommended taking the Claritin, and I've learned from the folks here that it has been very successful in reducing the SEs so I started taking it daily. I just had my second go round this week, and it seems to be making a dramatic difference. So give that a shot, if it works for you, great. If not, at least you won't have allergy problems.

    Thanks for the tip on Nexium. I have been plagued mightily by heartburn, and the Tums just aren't getting it done. I'll give Nexium a try.

    My hair is coming out in handfuls now, so my daughter is going with me for a buzz cut this afternoon. That should be a new experience.

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  • zjrosenthal
    zjrosenthal Member Posts: 2,026
    edited September 2014

    Had an icky night.  Ate fried chicken.  Not too bright.  Better today but feel weak. With my "just get it done" personality, weakness is very hard to tolerate.  Hair is coming out in handfuls.  Well if this goes like my first round days 4-5 are the worst so tomorrow should start to show improvement.  Grateful for no vomiting or any major pain.  Love, Jean

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  • KayaRose
    KayaRose Member Posts: 183
    edited September 2014

    Hi Sybilskelton,  I read about the Claritin before my shot and decided to give it a try.  So far, so good. I heard so many horror stories about Neulasta that I was actually more afraid of the shot than the chemo.  I checked with my MO and she said Claritin can't hurt so give it a try.  Seems ok.

    I ordered a wig through the American Cancer Society.  They are so nice to give a free wig to chemo patients.  I have a hard time with the thought of being bald.  Some women look beautiful that way but I am sure not going to be one of them.  I'll wear the wig when I go out.

    Thanks for the welcoming note.

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  • PoppyK
    PoppyK Member Posts: 1,805
    edited September 2014

    Kaya, I'm sorry for the reason you are here, but am so glad you started posting. Maybe think of it as another way to fight cancer?!

    I started chemo on 7/23 and have fuzzy chemo brain. Took my anti-nausea meds 45 minutes late and cycled through hours of nausea. Will not make that mistake again! Taking Dexilant for heartburn and it seems to be working.

    Toby, I am thinking about you and praying for you. I hope today goes well for you.

    Jean, I'm right there with you! Not being my usual self is so frustrating.

    I've always been the smart, capable, self-sufficient, busty brunette, who was always there to support others and get things done! Now I am fuzzy brained, dependent on others, and I don't even look like myself.

    Small amounts of food, not too spicy, not too much fat, seems to be working. Taste and smell have definitely been effected.

    Hope you all are having a good day with minimal SE.

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  • Rose0766
    Rose0766 Member Posts: 92
    edited September 2014

    Jean, I hope you feel better! Fried food--you are brave! I don't think my stomach could take it, I've been craving chicken wings- but oh boy, the gas I'm sure they would give me!

    PoppyK I can see that personality in you it still shows Cancer and all!! 

    KayaRose, welcome to the group! I know what you mean about it all happening fast! I think I'm on autopilot a lot of the time, I was diagnosed August 19. First chemo September 16. This all after having a benign mammo in April! We get thru because we have to, no other choice, and nobody, unless they have had Cancer, understands what we are going thru! This is one of the best groups for support and info!

    Well I still have my hair, so yippee I get to see my brother get married and look like I always have. Wedding is tomorrow and it's going to be a beautiful day! Have a great weekend everybody! Next chemo is on Tuesday, hoping my WBC count is better!

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  • Zimastar
    Zimastar Member Posts: 25
    edited September 2014

    Day 17 post 1st TCH...although I got a buzz cut Tuesday, I am loosing my hair quickly. Its like a thinning. I have less hair than my DH lol.

    Enjoy the wedding Jean! I LOVE weddings!!

    Welcome Kaya, sorry we all get to interact with you like this.

    Have a great weekend everyone. Tuesday is round 2 and I'll be down for the count for at least 7-8days if it goes like round 1 so I'm going to enjoy it!!

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  • LARock
    LARock Member Posts: 229
    edited September 2014

    Hello everyone. I'm new to the board and just had my first round of TC today. I got really light headed and sleepy from the Benadryl but otherwise everything went fine. One round down, five more to go!

    I had a lumpectomy and sentinel node biopsy a little over six weeks ago. Margins were clear, nodes were negative, but still need chemo, radiation and hormone therapy due to the tumor pathology and cancer cells in the lymphovascular system.

    I've been amazed and am thankful for the large amount of helpful information on so many sites and blogs. I'm thrilled to be able to join this one as it helps to talk to cancer sisters on the same journey, at the same time.

    My goal is to continue to work and exercise throughout my treatment. Hopefully I can but I'm prepared to redefine both as needed in order not to completely exhaust myself.

    Have a god evening and thanks for letting me join the conversation.

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  • Tobycc
    Tobycc Member Posts: 789
    edited September 2014

    welcome LA! I had my first round today also. Staff was great. Not a mark from IV. Little tired after anti nausea and steroid. Tolerated taxotere and cytoxen with no immediate reaction

    Following ALL the tips I have learned here. Went to work after coming home and eating oatmeal. DH steam cleaned carpets while I was gone

    Drinking water, Popsicles, started Prilosec two days ago. Rice for dinner and some skinny pop

    Shot tomorrow. MO thinks Sunday will be my "couch" day. Also said how I tolerate this will probably set the course. 

    Goal..walk every night, like tonight. Juice, rest, eat healthy and try darnedest to manage SE to come

    My faith has never been stronger

    Love and hugs

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  • barremom64
    barremom64 Member Posts: 191
    edited September 2014

    LARock & Tobycc-  Welcome to the group and may you both have a peaceful, restful weekend with no SE (side effects!).  Don't know if you know the tip regarding taking 1 Claritin and 1 Aleve per day (starting day of shot continuing for 3 days following) after the Neulasta shot but it really helps with the bone pain.  I just fininshed #2 of 4 of same cocktail as you both. I'm doing really well!  

    Hang in there:) 

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  • Tobycc
    Tobycc Member Posts: 789
    edited September 2014

    Barremom, thanks!  All the encouragement is welcome!!!!!!

    Prayers for restful and SE free weekend for all

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  • LARock
    LARock Member Posts: 229
    edited September 2014

    Barremom, thanks for the encouragement. Tobycc, I hope you're having a good evening.

    I'm feeling tired this evening and had to contend with an upset stomach and diarrhea. Nothing too bad. I did get a walk in after dinner as it was a beautiful evening here in SoCal. Hubby gives me my Neulasta shot tomorrow and I will follow the advice to take Claratin and Aleve. I'm also rinsing/drinking L-Glutemine 2x per day in hopes of warding off mouth sores. 

    Trying to decide when to shave the head.....

    Good night all.

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  • sybilskelton
    sybilskelton Member Posts: 77
    edited September 2014

    My hair was coming out in handfuls and driving me crazy, so I went and got it buzzed off yesterday. Much to my dismay, she didn't cut off all the gray, but it was a remarkably empowering experience. I highly recommend it.

    My MO advised me to stay away from ibuprofen for pain (Motrin, Advil). He said it can exacerbate heartburn. Obviously aspirin is out, he said stick with Tylenol or hydrocodone. Anyone else got this advice?

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  • Zimastar
    Zimastar Member Posts: 25
    edited September 2014

    Sybil, I was also advised Tylenol only. You & started the same day. I buzzed Tues due to some hair loss and yesterday after washing my head, it was like a salon in my shower. Wonder how far it'll go? But, its only hair! 

    Welcome LA. 

    hopefully yours anTobys SE will be minimum! 

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  • KayaRose
    KayaRose Member Posts: 183
    edited September 2014

    Welcome to all the newcomers.  It's so great to know that we're all in this together.  So far my worst SE has been some awful constipation.  I've read that it's a pretty common SE.  I'm also having a bit of pain across my shoulders and neck.  I'm thinking that's probably the Neulasta.  I was just sitting here thinking about how much I'm going to hate losing my hair.  I heard it usually comes out after the second tx.  You guys getting buzz cuts are so brave.  

    Trying to keep active.  The MO said to plan at least one activity per day and try to accomplish ist.  Even it it's a minor one.  Yesterday we went for a walk in the park.  Today my DH was in a 5k which was a fundraiser for our grandkid's school.  I watched the smallest one (3 years old) while he and the rest of the family ran.  We have been having some extremely beautiful fall weather here in the Chicago area.  Trying to enjoy it while it lasts.  A good day to everyone!

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  • zjrosenthal
    zjrosenthal Member Posts: 2,026
    edited September 2014

    Got thru days 3-4 which are when I crash.  Feeling better.  Hubby and I went to a quilt show where a friend won several awards then for lunch and down for a nap.   Church tonight if I'm up to it.   Hope all have a restful weekend.  Next week is my good week then chemo again a week from Monday.  Love, Jean

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  • Tobycc
    Tobycc Member Posts: 789
    edited September 2014

    day two so far no problems. Got the shot. Using my aresenal....all Meds, coconut oil toothpaste, etc

    Went with DH to a salon who specializes in wigs. Found one we really like. She will trim it the way I want. Plan is to tell my staff next week that I am going for makeover the following week. I figure by day 12 will go in, let her cut it all off and start with wig

    Boys in college home week of 10/17. That Friday is my second, so we will tell them then. They know about the lumpectomy, expected radiation, but is don't want to worry them now

    Then went to petsmart, then target. Now home for rest of day and night. Rainy afternoon 

    Hopefully short walk later

    God bless you all.  

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  • Tobycc
    Tobycc Member Posts: 789
    edited September 2014

    jean....gals you made it through the crash! I hope to go to church tomorrow.. We shall see! 

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  • Rosebud1445
    Rosebud1445 Member Posts: 16
    edited September 2014

    Good afternoon ladies

    Had my first chemo yesterday with no SE. Trying to stay ahead of everything and am taking anti-nausea and steroids again this evening.  I've felt very good so far. Walked yesterday evening with DH and have been busy around the house all day.  Hoping this holds out but I'm ready to face reality if it doesn't.   Some of you are talking about getting your shots already. Have your blood counts dropped that quickly?

    Welcome to the new folks...glad you found us but wish you didn't need us. Knowledge is power!

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