1st chemo coming up and scared

newbiefromcananda
newbiefromcananda Member Posts: 234
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
1st chemo in 5 days and I am really scared I read the good stories but I always seem to remember the scary stories (the allergic reactions) etc please help??? my anxiety is thru the roof , heart rate elevated ....... thanks Lisaxo
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Comments

  • Marlene_K
    Marlene_K Member Posts: 508
    #2
    Easier said than done...
    But try to relax a bit, Lisa. First of all, it's not for 5 days yet, so you will be a wreck by then if you're starting already ;) I know I didn't sleep much, if any, the night before. It's very normal to be afraid of the unknown, but if you go through and read the many posts about side effects, they truly don't seem to be more than an upset stomach, achy bones and/or muscles, headaches, and lethargy. Heck, that's all doable stuff, don't you think? And there are all kinds of things we can take for anyone of those symptoms. I've been one of the lucky ones, I suppose, in that I don't get nausea and generally am just achy for a couple days after the Neulasta shot. I'm a bit tired for about a week and then am better until the next one. I have treatment every 3 weeks, so I do have time to recoup. You're young, Lisa, and I'm very sure you'll do fine! In fact if I could get a betting pool going, I'd put a hefty wager on that. Generally, they give you a relaxant before treatment, so you will feel very at ease (if not snoring) while you get your treatment. The water thing is very important. I drink probably 2-3 bottles of water while I get my treatment and tons more afterwards. An advisor from my insurance company told me water is very important because you want to flush that stuff through your system and OUT!

    It's much easier said than done, Lisa... I know! But please take some deep breaths in and let them out slowly. We would all rather not have to do this, but we do to eat up anything that might be floating around. I can't wait til you tell us how well you did!

    With hugs & best wishes, Mar
  • Sher43009
    Sher43009 Member Posts: 602 Member
    #3
    Lisaxo
    You have to relax. The more nervous you are the worse it will be. I too was scared so I know how it feels. I just kept thinking this is saving my life so it will be fine. Drink plenty of fluids, make sure you eat, take your anit-nausea meds even if your not nauseous and take deep breaths. You'll get through it.
    Here's a hug for you!!
    Sher
  • pinkkari09
    pinkkari09 Member Posts: 877
    #4
    It'll all be ok :)
    It is easier said than done but you should relax and try not to get yourself too worked up. I find myself in your situation often (had 8th treatment of 16 yesterday), I get anxious before every treatment and so far they have all gone well (knock on wood). I have side effects but all are manageable with medication. Suffering with a mild for of general anxiety I find myself using my anxiety meds before treatment too. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor for something if you get too anxious. My thoughts and prayers are with you and keep us posted, YOU CAN DO IT :)
    ~Kari
  • Lymph23
    Lymph23 Member Posts: 23
    #5
    Try to stay calm
    I think that nearly everyone who has chemo is scared the first time. I think its the fear of the unknown. All I can tell you is that I was fine all through my chemo 12 sessions except for the normal tiredness, but not sick at all. As others have said drinking plenty of water is really good, take your anti sickness tablets if you need them. Another tip I was told by my chemo nurse was ginger, pineapple and strawberries help and are good for you (whether this is true or not I don't really know, but I think I looked like a strawberry at the end). Please try to stay calm and positive I believe this helps. I did it and you can to. I'm now lucky enough to be 6yrs down the line. Thinking of you please keep us informed how it goes.

    Hugs and best wishes.

    Lesley
  • xskeetshooter
    xskeetshooter Member Posts: 169
    #6
    did the same thing
    i was scared too, but when i did the first 1 i thought that was nothing, dont listen to the horror stories, keep all negative people OUT of your life. time to be a little selfish and look after #1. i had to do 8 chemo only 2 left its been a breeze, my second taxol gave me a little bit of hives, but the nurse is right with you and takes it away . dont worry hun , you will be fine, what helped me everytime i went i asked god for strength it works
  • laurissa
    laurissa Member Posts: 773
    #7
    Hi, Lisa
    It is scary not knowing and waiting. This site helps alot. What are your meds? Mine are cytoxan and taxatere. The neulasta shot is what hurts me for a couple days, starts about 36 hrs after. I do take a couple vicadins a day for that. Had some left over from a toothache. It is an unexpected bump in the road going through all this. Have faith.
  • blazytracy
    blazytracy Member Posts: 157
    #8
    Hi Canada
    What part of Canada are you from? I grew up in Regina, SK - don't live there anymore - I am now in MN.

    I had my first chemo on Nov. 17th (3 days ago) and I was, too, scared beyond belief! My husband came with me,(thank god) and I have to say that Everything went A-OK! I had posted that subject 1 1/2 hrs after chemo.

    I was just fine, everything went very well, everyone was very nice and explained everything in detail what I was getting and how long it was going to take, etc.

    Just remember the nurses do know what they are doing and will take very good care of you..don't overstress..take it from me..it IS way better than you think it will be! Take a deep breath and breathe, breathe, breathe... it is ok. ;)

    Good Luck,
    Tracy
  • mizcaldwell
    mizcaldwell Member Posts: 143
    #9
    Drugs!
    Lisaxo -

    Everyone has given you great advice - and I second it all! But another thing that you can do is ask for an anti-anxiety med. Several posts from several people have said that they took the Ativan (Lorazipam) that was prescribed for nasuea a couple days before because it is actually an anti-anxiety medicine. It can make you sleepy - but if the anxiety is too much, ask your doctor about it - it takes the edge off. You need to be rested and let your body be strong - so call that doctor and talk to them about it! No need to go crazy with the unknown and waiting - it won't be as bad as it seems from five days out. But do talk to the doctor!!

    Sending thoughts and prayers your way!

    Lori
  • newbiefromcananda
    newbiefromcananda Member Posts: 234
    #10
    mizcaldwell said:

    Drugs!
    Lisaxo -

    Everyone has given you great advice - and I second it all! But another thing that you can do is ask for an anti-anxiety med. Several posts from several people have said that they took the Ativan (Lorazipam) that was prescribed for nasuea a couple days before because it is actually an anti-anxiety medicine. It can make you sleepy - but if the anxiety is too much, ask your doctor about it - it takes the edge off. You need to be rested and let your body be strong - so call that doctor and talk to them about it! No need to go crazy with the unknown and waiting - it won't be as bad as it seems from five days out. But do talk to the doctor!!

    Sending thoughts and prayers your way!

    Lori

    thank you so much everyone ,
    thank you so much everyone , I take ativan now (since diagnosis really)the closer it gets to the date the harder it is thanks for all the support I will keep everyone informed xoxoxo Lisa
  • sweetvickid
    sweetvickid Member Posts: 459 Member
    #11
    Lisa...I am the opposite, so
    Lisa...I am the opposite, so impatient to get chemo started! I want it shrunk and out of my body now. Half the battle is always attitude something which I have always had. Now people are saying I have such a good attitude! LOL If they only knew how pissed off I am at my boobs! Just start brainwashing yourself by saying over and over and over again, "I can't wait to get started and get these cancer cells killed off. chemo is not going to be a big deal" If you say soemthing often enough it becomes a fact.
  • Marcia527
    Marcia527 Member Posts: 2,729
    #12
    Don't be scared. You may be
    Don't be scared. You may be one to sail through. Everybody is different. Try to keep your mind off it and do things to keep busy. Hang in there. Hugs.
  • newbiefromcananda
    newbiefromcananda Member Posts: 234
    #13
    Marcia527 said:

    Don't be scared. You may be
    Don't be scared. You may be one to sail through. Everybody is different. Try to keep your mind off it and do things to keep busy. Hang in there. Hugs.

    thanks again everyone, I
    thanks again everyone, I know its not easy but nothing has been easy for me, when I found thelump it was 2 cm (good) when the surgeon went in there were 3 tumours (5.5cm, 2 cm and 1.2 cm :( then 4 pos lymph nodes) my port surgery was yesterday and the couldn't find the right vein so it went in my jugular, my 25min surgery was 1 hour , I am bruised++ swollen+++ sore++

    Lisa xoxo
  • jennytwist
    jennytwist Member Posts: 896
    #14
    newbiefromcananda said:

    thanks again everyone, I
    thanks again everyone, I know its not easy but nothing has been easy for me, when I found thelump it was 2 cm (good) when the surgeon went in there were 3 tumours (5.5cm, 2 cm and 1.2 cm :( then 4 pos lymph nodes) my port surgery was yesterday and the couldn't find the right vein so it went in my jugular, my 25min surgery was 1 hour , I am bruised++ swollen+++ sore++

    Lisa xoxo

    Once you get started
    on the chemo you'll feel more in control, believe it or not. Everyone reacts differently but it's doable - just remember the end result it getting this horrible disease! I'll keep you in my thought and prayers - you've come to the right place for alot of positive encouragement - tons of wonderful sisters who are right here with you! Take care and try to rest up this weekend and let those around you take care of you!
    much love,
    Jenny
  • lisa45_motherof_5
    lisa45_motherof_5 Member Posts: 1
    #15
    got some good asvice before 1st chemo
    greetings,
    i have had 2 chemos and yes the first one felt like i was going to the chopping block. but the gave me tylenol pm and it calmed me. the 2nd chemo was much easier, waiting for my 3rd. i was told too late that there is a eyebrow stick that you can apply daily that keeps your brows from falling out. cost about $42 in alabama. i missed it. you will find so much strength as time passes and you actually make it through each day!!!! i will pray for you! lisa
  • Marlene_K
    Marlene_K Member Posts: 508
    #16
    lisa45_motherof_5 said:

    got some good asvice before 1st chemo
    greetings,
    i have had 2 chemos and yes the first one felt like i was going to the chopping block. but the gave me tylenol pm and it calmed me. the 2nd chemo was much easier, waiting for my 3rd. i was told too late that there is a eyebrow stick that you can apply daily that keeps your brows from falling out. cost about $42 in alabama. i missed it. you will find so much strength as time passes and you actually make it through each day!!!! i will pray for you! lisa

    Eyebrows
    Do you know what this is called, Lisa? And why did you 'miss' it... did you eyebrows already fall out?
  • LadyParvati
    LadyParvati Member Posts: 328
    #17
    sweetvickid said:

    Lisa...I am the opposite, so
    Lisa...I am the opposite, so impatient to get chemo started! I want it shrunk and out of my body now. Half the battle is always attitude something which I have always had. Now people are saying I have such a good attitude! LOL If they only knew how pissed off I am at my boobs! Just start brainwashing yourself by saying over and over and over again, "I can't wait to get started and get these cancer cells killed off. chemo is not going to be a big deal" If you say soemthing often enough it becomes a fact.

    I'm laughing! Vicki, this is
    I'm laughing! Vicki, this is my attitude, too! I could hardly wait for surgery--wanted so much to get this show on the road instead of waiting anymore! I think it's very empowering to let our anger give us the energy to get through all of this.

    Thanks! Sandy
  • Goldenguru
    Goldenguru Member Posts: 23
    #18
    Marlene_K said:

    Eyebrows
    Do you know what this is called, Lisa? And why did you 'miss' it... did you eyebrows already fall out?

    Hi Lisa -
    I was very anxious
    Hi Lisa -

    I was very anxious before my first treatment. I actually cried for most of the first treatment (off and on for several hours). Truly - my FEAR of the chemo was MUCH worse than the actual experience. I have had some side effects - but they have been manageable. I have resigned myself to the fact that life is just much slower right now. I stay home alot. I sleep alot. But, it is doable. Not fun. Not easy. But doable. Hang in there and let us know how you're doing.
  • chenheart
    chenheart Member Posts: 5,159 Member
    #19
    Awwwww....sweetie! I can't
    Awwwww....sweetie! I can't add much to what the other Kindred Spirits have said, but I wanted to at least send you a cyber hug.

    I recall being so scared the day of my first chemo; I cried like a baby when they showed me to the chemo room, looked over my charts and then.."hooked me up", so to speak! I don't know that I was thinking about allergic reation, or how long it would take, or anything concrete. Somehow, even after surgery and drains, and discomfort , and tears, and thinking I was going to die~ the chemo made it all even more REAL.
    But, ya know what? After that first time, the rest of the infusions were just fine! Actually, the first session went fine too; no adverse reactions, I got to know the most amazing women outside of these boards, my chemo RNs! Advice to you? Make these women ( or maybe they are men) your BFF for the duration of your chemo~ they are angels and will be there to answer questions, comfort and show you the care and professionalism you need.

    Keep hydrated; it is important to keep your system flushed as well.

    Enough for today! We will walk you through whatever you need as you need it! You aren't alone, as you know...

    Hugs,
    Chen♥
  • newbiefromcananda
    newbiefromcananda Member Posts: 234
    #20
    chenheart said:

    Awwwww....sweetie! I can't
    Awwwww....sweetie! I can't add much to what the other Kindred Spirits have said, but I wanted to at least send you a cyber hug.

    I recall being so scared the day of my first chemo; I cried like a baby when they showed me to the chemo room, looked over my charts and then.."hooked me up", so to speak! I don't know that I was thinking about allergic reation, or how long it would take, or anything concrete. Somehow, even after surgery and drains, and discomfort , and tears, and thinking I was going to die~ the chemo made it all even more REAL.
    But, ya know what? After that first time, the rest of the infusions were just fine! Actually, the first session went fine too; no adverse reactions, I got to know the most amazing women outside of these boards, my chemo RNs! Advice to you? Make these women ( or maybe they are men) your BFF for the duration of your chemo~ they are angels and will be there to answer questions, comfort and show you the care and professionalism you need.

    Keep hydrated; it is important to keep your system flushed as well.

    Enough for today! We will walk you through whatever you need as you need it! You aren't alone, as you know...

    Hugs,
    Chen♥

    thanks everyone I will be ok
    thanks everyone I will be ok now till tues night ...probably won't be able to sleep......I know I have all of you to get me through this ....I love this site and it is my new bfff :)

    xxxx0000000Lisa
  • carkris
    carkris Member Posts: 4,553 Member
    #21
    newbiefromcananda said:

    thanks everyone I will be ok
    thanks everyone I will be ok now till tues night ...probably won't be able to sleep......I know I have all of you to get me through this ....I love this site and it is my new bfff :)

    xxxx0000000Lisa

    This is my second primary 15
    This is my second primary 15 years apart. I have pulled into this kicking and screaming. Iasked my onc for an ativan prescription, when i found the area, I just know me. I dont overuse it but if I need I take it. You have been through much already so the infusion will not be any worse, then you will find how you as an individual react to it and make accomodations. At the same time you will have had one in the books. lots of suggestions here and people who have experienced side effects. everyone is different. I had very little bone pain, etc... but had other things. What are you receiving if you dont mind my asking?

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