Treatment #2 tomorrow...
I hope this go round is better than the first, I don't want to be laid out in the bed for 3-5 days. Let's wish and pray that this time is an improvement of the first.
Right now I'm kinda scared to go out...it's day 13 after chemo and it's almost time for my hair to go if its going. I am not prepared to be in public and it start. Maybe it won't...I know that's wishful thinking.
Katreena
Comments
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Suppository?tami90650 said:god bless you katreena
Im glad to hear you have made up your mind to go and get your next treatment. Please ask about the anti nausea supposatories. They REALLy worked for me. Your in my prayers. Call me okay
They have anti nausea supposatories??0 -
#2 Treatment
Hi, Jaavon, I know these treatments are never anything we look forward to, but I did find that my second and subsequent treatments were better than the first. I hope it will be the same for you. My anti-nausea meds were changed for the second; that made a big difference. There are several options for meds, so your dr. should be able to easily make some changes for you. (Just avoid Reglan, per an earlier thread.) I switched compazine for Ativan, a big difference as Ativan is also an anti-anxiety type med and sedative.
My hair started coming out on Day 21. Before that, I was getting headaches, and my head actually hurt, as if my hair were pulled back tightly in a ponytail. That is a signal that the hair will be going soon. There is an older thread where many others describe the feeling and process. I learned from the sisters who posted there. They let me know what was happening and what to expect.
I had my hair cut very short prior to chemo. When I started shedding like our three dogs, I just had Joe buzz cut it for me.
I do wish for you a much-improved experience this next time and help with getting rid of the dark spots. Keep in mind, though, that the fatigue is cumulative, so you can expect to be tired. Just not laid low by nausea. Your doctor can and should adjust meds so that you do not experience that. Let us know how things go. Will be thinking of you and hoping for a better day tomorrow.0 -
HeadMoopy23 said:#2 Treatment
Hi, Jaavon, I know these treatments are never anything we look forward to, but I did find that my second and subsequent treatments were better than the first. I hope it will be the same for you. My anti-nausea meds were changed for the second; that made a big difference. There are several options for meds, so your dr. should be able to easily make some changes for you. (Just avoid Reglan, per an earlier thread.) I switched compazine for Ativan, a big difference as Ativan is also an anti-anxiety type med and sedative.
My hair started coming out on Day 21. Before that, I was getting headaches, and my head actually hurt, as if my hair were pulled back tightly in a ponytail. That is a signal that the hair will be going soon. There is an older thread where many others describe the feeling and process. I learned from the sisters who posted there. They let me know what was happening and what to expect.
I had my hair cut very short prior to chemo. When I started shedding like our three dogs, I just had Joe buzz cut it for me.
I do wish for you a much-improved experience this next time and help with getting rid of the dark spots. Keep in mind, though, that the fatigue is cumulative, so you can expect to be tired. Just not laid low by nausea. Your doctor can and should adjust meds so that you do not experience that. Let us know how things go. Will be thinking of you and hoping for a better day tomorrow.
If you touch one side of my scalp it hurts. I also get headaches not everyday but out the blue. I'm not ready for it but wish to be in a place that is prepared. Do the Ativan calm you?0 -
Ativanjaavon2002 said:Head
If you touch one side of my scalp it hurts. I also get headaches not everyday but out the blue. I'm not ready for it but wish to be in a place that is prepared. Do the Ativan calm you?
Moopy is in bed now, but I can tell you for a fact that Ativan works wonders in helping her stay calm. Best of luck on your next infusion, Katreena. As Moopy said, the second one went waaaaaay better than the first. Maybe you'll even feel good enough to have a Chuck E. Cheese salad on the way home!
Best,
Joe0 -
Hoping your experience is the same as my wife's
I haven't posted in awhile, but I wanted to tell you that my wife's second, third, and fourth infusions went much better than her first. I didn't think she would be able to continue after her first infusion--she had severe nausea and vomiting, head aches, ear aches, and constipation from all the meds. But the second, third, and fourth infusions have gone much better--only mild nausea and no head or ear aches and no constipation because she didn't need the pain and nausea meds. For the nausea, a friend suggested that she smoke a small amount of marijuana as soon as she came home from getting the infusion and my wife found it to be a miracle drug--almost instantly no nausea, and the nice side effect of making her sleepy. I notice that no one on this board mentions marijuana, but my wife found it to be very effective. Even without the marijuana, her last three treatments were not nearly as bad as her first, however, and I hope your experience is the same.
As Aortus mentioned, Ativan is a good relaxant and my wife also uses it occasionally to go to sleep. She also uses Lidocaine cream as a local anesthetic on the needle puncture sites.
Good luck tomorrow and keep us posted,
Jim0 -
Marijuanasharkiejim said:Hoping your experience is the same as my wife's
I haven't posted in awhile, but I wanted to tell you that my wife's second, third, and fourth infusions went much better than her first. I didn't think she would be able to continue after her first infusion--she had severe nausea and vomiting, head aches, ear aches, and constipation from all the meds. But the second, third, and fourth infusions have gone much better--only mild nausea and no head or ear aches and no constipation because she didn't need the pain and nausea meds. For the nausea, a friend suggested that she smoke a small amount of marijuana as soon as she came home from getting the infusion and my wife found it to be a miracle drug--almost instantly no nausea, and the nice side effect of making her sleepy. I notice that no one on this board mentions marijuana, but my wife found it to be very effective. Even without the marijuana, her last three treatments were not nearly as bad as her first, however, and I hope your experience is the same.
As Aortus mentioned, Ativan is a good relaxant and my wife also uses it occasionally to go to sleep. She also uses Lidocaine cream as a local anesthetic on the needle puncture sites.
Good luck tomorrow and keep us posted,
Jim
Didn't know that the smoking kind was legal.
My appetite was really bad and one of the options I heard about was a pill called Marinol.
Didn't try it because it will drug test positive for Pot.
My neighbor did volunteer to go to the "bad" side of town and purchase some for me but I passed on that too.
Eventually my appetite has returned but I'm still down the 30 pounds I lost during chemo.
Hugs
Bill0 -
Hey Katreena
Glad to hear that you are resolved to continue with your treatment. Like many others here, your first could have been your worst. I hope so. For me, a lot of my symptoms were managed after the first treatment since I knew what to do / what medicines to take. The fatigue can be cumulative though, but remember that you will always recover from every treatment. As for your hair, yes it is a shock when it finally falls out. Even though I was expecting it, I was still somehow surprised. Don't be disappointed with yourself if you feel bad even though you felt you were ready. It is difficult to really be ready for something like that. Remember most people on this site are either bald now or have been bald at some point. Just think of all of us bald ladies cheering for you and you won't be alone. Good luck tomorrow!!
Mimi0 -
Hair
Jaavon, I don't think you need to be concerned about your hair falling out in public. When mine came out, it started gradually. Running my fingers through my hair brought fingers full of hair. But it was nothing anyone would notice by looking. You should have a couple of days to realize what is going on. Or you will notice it in the shower when you shampoo. Do be prepared. If you plan to buy a wig, buy it NOW while your hair is still intact, so that the sales person can see your style, color, etc. Then when you need it, you'll have it.
Good luck tomorrow.0 -
Wishing you well!jakeca said:Hair
Jaavon, I don't think you need to be concerned about your hair falling out in public. When mine came out, it started gradually. Running my fingers through my hair brought fingers full of hair. But it was nothing anyone would notice by looking. You should have a couple of days to realize what is going on. Or you will notice it in the shower when you shampoo. Do be prepared. If you plan to buy a wig, buy it NOW while your hair is still intact, so that the sales person can see your style, color, etc. Then when you need it, you'll have it.
Good luck tomorrow.
Jaavon, good luck with your infusion. For me, each one is a little different. Losing my hair did not trouble me, but I know it does some people. It will happen somewhat slowly and you may find that you like the look. I have only worn a wig when going out to dinner with my husband because I knew that it bothered him. However, last weekend, as we were about to leave he said, "Leave the wig off if you prefer, I am used to it now and like the look!" YEAH!
I'll be thinking of you.0 -
Here in Montanasharkiejim said:Hoping your experience is the same as my wife's
I haven't posted in awhile, but I wanted to tell you that my wife's second, third, and fourth infusions went much better than her first. I didn't think she would be able to continue after her first infusion--she had severe nausea and vomiting, head aches, ear aches, and constipation from all the meds. But the second, third, and fourth infusions have gone much better--only mild nausea and no head or ear aches and no constipation because she didn't need the pain and nausea meds. For the nausea, a friend suggested that she smoke a small amount of marijuana as soon as she came home from getting the infusion and my wife found it to be a miracle drug--almost instantly no nausea, and the nice side effect of making her sleepy. I notice that no one on this board mentions marijuana, but my wife found it to be very effective. Even without the marijuana, her last three treatments were not nearly as bad as her first, however, and I hope your experience is the same.
As Aortus mentioned, Ativan is a good relaxant and my wife also uses it occasionally to go to sleep. She also uses Lidocaine cream as a local anesthetic on the needle puncture sites.
Good luck tomorrow and keep us posted,
Jim
Hi Jim, I'm glad your wife is feeling better. Here in Montana marijuana is legal for medical reasons. A physical assistant or a nurse can also prescribe it as well. You are allowed to grow your own or buy it. I would get some but afraid to ask my DR. I hear it is a miracle drug for ca. patients and lots of other ailments, I don't know where you are from or what the laws are there but..hey if it works use it. It is a God given plant!!
best wishes
jackie0 -
hairsausageroll said:Wishing you well!
Jaavon, good luck with your infusion. For me, each one is a little different. Losing my hair did not trouble me, but I know it does some people. It will happen somewhat slowly and you may find that you like the look. I have only worn a wig when going out to dinner with my husband because I knew that it bothered him. However, last weekend, as we were about to leave he said, "Leave the wig off if you prefer, I am used to it now and like the look!" YEAH!
I'll be thinking of you.
Hi Jaavon ...
I'm no help with the nausea thing because I've been one of the lucky ones ... and had absolutely NO nausea... although I think many of the people in this discussion group are on much stronger chemo than I am. (I'm on weekly taxol and herceptin). BUT ... I can respond to the hair loss thing. I'd been told my hair would FOR SURE get thin ... but I would "probably" NOT lose my hair. Since I wanted to be prepared just in case I was one of those who DID lose their hair ... I ordered a hat and a scarf ... just in case I'd need them.
From what I had been reading on the posts it looked like most lost their hair between day 13 and 20 ... so I'd sort of run my fingers through my hair a couple of times a day just to see if a few hairs came out indicating the "thinning." And ... nothing would happen. Absolutely NO thinning. Then on day 15 I ran my fingers through my hair and ended up with a fist full of hair. Then more hair ... and more. It was VERY sudden. I hadn't had aching, itching or any other clue that it was going to come out so fast. But ... it did and I called a friend ... went over to her house and she shaved my head. Since then I've been wearing my hat and scarf ... and placed another "tlc catalog" order for a few more things. I really don't care about the hair loss ... as long as I continue to have NO nausea I'm a happy camper!
hugs.
teena0 -
Yes, I think they gave mejaavon2002 said:Suppository?
They have anti nausea supposatories??
Yes, I think they gave me some of those. It's for when you can't keep anything down in the tummy.0 -
Treatment and hair losstgf said:hair
Hi Jaavon ...
I'm no help with the nausea thing because I've been one of the lucky ones ... and had absolutely NO nausea... although I think many of the people in this discussion group are on much stronger chemo than I am. (I'm on weekly taxol and herceptin). BUT ... I can respond to the hair loss thing. I'd been told my hair would FOR SURE get thin ... but I would "probably" NOT lose my hair. Since I wanted to be prepared just in case I was one of those who DID lose their hair ... I ordered a hat and a scarf ... just in case I'd need them.
From what I had been reading on the posts it looked like most lost their hair between day 13 and 20 ... so I'd sort of run my fingers through my hair a couple of times a day just to see if a few hairs came out indicating the "thinning." And ... nothing would happen. Absolutely NO thinning. Then on day 15 I ran my fingers through my hair and ended up with a fist full of hair. Then more hair ... and more. It was VERY sudden. I hadn't had aching, itching or any other clue that it was going to come out so fast. But ... it did and I called a friend ... went over to her house and she shaved my head. Since then I've been wearing my hat and scarf ... and placed another "tlc catalog" order for a few more things. I really don't care about the hair loss ... as long as I continue to have NO nausea I'm a happy camper!
hugs.
teena
Katreena,
I am glad you decided to have your 2nd treatment.
As for the hair loss--it happened to me day 15 in the shower and it was a very emotional day for me that day. I then had my head shaved the following day. My head ached and itched between the first and second treatments and thinned out but then it was coming out fast and furious.
I hope all the rest of your treatments are good ones and that you don't have nausea.
Hugs and prayers going your way.
Margo0 -
Marijuanarjjj said:Here in Montana
Hi Jim, I'm glad your wife is feeling better. Here in Montana marijuana is legal for medical reasons. A physical assistant or a nurse can also prescribe it as well. You are allowed to grow your own or buy it. I would get some but afraid to ask my DR. I hear it is a miracle drug for ca. patients and lots of other ailments, I don't know where you are from or what the laws are there but..hey if it works use it. It is a God given plant!!
best wishes
jackie
Hi, Jackie--
Yes, I live in California so medicinal pot is legal but I just got it off the street since my wife needed such a small amount and we didn't want to hassle with getting a prescription and going to one of the medicinal pot stores. I'm a recovered alcoholic and recreational drug user (sober 16 years), so I'll admit I had a little reluctance about having marijuana around the house, but I haven't been tempted in the least and my wife has found it to be a miracle drug. We told our oncologist and he said he could prescribe Marinol but it just didn't seem to be worth the trouble. His attitude was similar to yours--if it works, use it. Given my history, I am certainly not proselytizing here, just passing on information.
Thanks for your post and best wishes to you
Jim0 -
Katreena, glad to see thattommaseena said:Treatment and hair loss
Katreena,
I am glad you decided to have your 2nd treatment.
As for the hair loss--it happened to me day 15 in the shower and it was a very emotional day for me that day. I then had my head shaved the following day. My head ached and itched between the first and second treatments and thinned out but then it was coming out fast and furious.
I hope all the rest of your treatments are good ones and that you don't have nausea.
Hugs and prayers going your way.
Margo
Katreena, glad to see that you have gone through with your second treatment. The hair issue, although devastating at first, will eventually be a thing of convenience while you are getting through your chemo. Just think, you don't have to spend that time normally needed to fix your hair, and not having to shave is wonderful.
As far as the nausea is concerned, please make sure they don't prescribe Reglan for nausea. Also, check with your chemo nurse and find out what they are putting in your IV for nausea, as sometimes Reglan is used in IV's. The drug has been "black labeled" by the FDA, and has some horrid link to a neurological disease called tardive dyskinesia, more commonly in older females. Be cautious, and let them know you will not take that drug. Other forms of nausea meds are effective (such as Emend, or Ativan), and don't have the link that Reglan does.
Hope your treatments continue to be doable, and hope also that you are through these before you know it. Hugs your way.
Judy0
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