The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

Thank you for being a part of the Cancer Survivor Network community. Survivors and caregivers like you have played a unique role in fostering an online environment that encourages connection among those needing support, community, and education. On May 28, the Network will be discontinued. More details are available here . If you have any questions, contact CSNSupportTeam@cancer.org. Thanks again for the support you’ve provided each other over the years. We remain committed to supporting you in other ways throughout your cancer journey.

Thank you and question

hege
hege CSN Member Posts: 12
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
I just want to say thank's for the information and support. I know I'm not the only one going through this but it is so helpful to be able to talk to others.
I realize there are different kinds of chemo and everyone reacts differently but can anybody give me general information about what to expect the first time?

Thanks! Hege
Like Care

Comments

  • jeancmici
    jeancmici CSN Member Posts: 665 *
    #2
    hi Hege,

    It probably won't be as bad as you anticipate. I had visions of myself throwing up and even passing out, but instead the medication ahead of time worked and I followed the instructions to take every 8 hours for the first three days whether I felt I needed it or not. Don't wait to find how if you are going to be sick because it's too late for the meds then. Don't be curious - LOL! - just take them.

    I was actually there the first time during dinner time and sat eating a sandwich - other times I had light food - something I had never imagined.

    Drink lots of water - good to do a few days before in preparation but essential to drink enough fluids during the months of chemo - everyday get fluids.

    You'll be fine. We've all gone through it - keep that in mind.

    Love, Jean
    Like Care
  • isaiah4031
    isaiah4031 CSN Member Posts: 240
    #3
    Hi,
    My first chemo was not the "horror" that I expected. The infusion of the medicine was uneventful. Just a little cold in the arm that the med went it. Sometimes..depending on what you are taking...you might get a sneeze fit..I never did. I actually felt okay the rest of the day. Just like Jean said, take the meds they give you whether you think you need them or not. The second day I was very tired. So I slept. The third day I was nauseated until the fifth day, then I was okay. I was able to eat the same day without any problems, but I really expected the worst. I wish you the best experience possible. Keep us posted.
    Love, Jayne
    Like Care

Discussion Boards