Side effects from carbo/taxol

Chemo has a residual effect that can last for 3 weeks after the treatment.  I know how you feel.  You are completely exhausted.  This is normal for many, at least it is for me.  But hopefully, it will have the desired effect of lowering your CA-125 count considerably and give you a long period of progression free survival.  Not sure of your diagnosis, but I know what side effects come from this combo since it is my "constant companion."  Take a look at the "chemocare.com" link and you will see more info on the effects of these two drugs.  I'm sorry that this is what it is doing to you.  It has made me so weak at times that I have to sit down on a shower seat to take a shower.  Neuropathy from previous sessions has caused me to always use a cane when I go anywhere.  Hopefully, your side effects will subside.  I do know that lack of hydration can be one reason for "no energy".  Don't be afraid to ask the doctor about hydration.  

Love Loretta

P.S.  The type of cancer you're battling will also have an effect on how quickly you can return to some sense of normalcy relative to energy levels.  But I've never regained my original energy level since being diagnosed with Peritoneal Carcinomatosis/Ovarian Cancer Stage IV in November of 2012.  But I'm blessed to still be alive, so I'll take the bad with the good.  

CamiBeaver said:

Unfortunately, that is what I

Unfortunately, that is what I experienced as well when I did my treatment. As time goes, I found that I got used to being exhausted all the time and was able to do things on Wednesday and Thursday before getting my treatment again on the Friday. But around that time, like you, it knocked me out completely for the whole week. As you get used to it, make sure to have objective tests to keep track of how you are really doing. It is incredible how our body adjusts... (like if you need to stop in the stairs to catch your breath and that wasn't the case before)

I wish you the best of luck. Be strong, see this as an experience just like any other, and just observe the changes  (easy to say, I know ).

After the 6 month treatment though, I was amazed at how quickly I regained all my strengths and ability. I went back to work and my normal life and it felt almost like it never happened. Like I dreamt it.

I am visiting from the uterine cancer discussion board. My gyn/onc  told me that if I thought I felt better 3 months after completing chemo I should know that it would take a year to really feel better. That was 9 years ago. She was right I really didn’t realize how much better I could feel in one year. Going through surgery, chemo, internal and external radiation over 6 months takes an unbelievable toll on our bodies and minds. Be gentle with yourself and when you need to rest do just that.  Radiation caused me the most fatigue. Honestly, I do tire more easily than before I had cancer. I don’ t think I will ever have the same energy as I did before cancer treatment. Happy none the less! Also thanks Tethys41 for the information about genetic tie to inability to metabolize Taxol for some of us. It explains a lot. My Mom had a genetic defect that wouldn’ t allow her to metabolize Coumadin a blood thinner and she almost bled to death at the age of 36yrs. 

Hi All,

I have had 6 Taxol treatments and 2 Carboplatin treatments. I feel tired towards the end of the day but have found the following really helpful:

1st: positive attitude is a must. I try and make someone smile every day. Yes, cancer is a nasty business, but life is beautiful so embrace it with all the smiles you can.

2nd: Drink plenty of fluids and avoid sugars and caffeine. Try making sure you are over hydrated before each session if you can.

3rd: Eat as cleanly as you can making sure you get plenty of veggies, fruits, nuts and legumes.

4th: Exercise.  The more active I am, the less fatigue I have.  There are some days when I just do not feel like doing anything. Those are the days I push myself the hardest and have been rewarded with very minimal side effects from these drugs so far.

Share a smile it will make you and someone else feel good!

NoTimeForCancer said:

welcome WarriorS1.  So nice

welcome WarriorS1.  So nice to hear how your body is coping with it all - it made me smile 

Thanks NoTimeForCancer for your kind words.