Any Chemo-prep Advice?

carkris said:

I paid a little extra and
I paid a little extra and got a 1/2 real, 1/2 synthetic wig. looks better than my own hair did. I went to a place where they matched it, to my hair before I lost it. Then when I was ready she buzzed my hair.
I think you will have to see how the chemo affects your wife, before you buy all kinds of stuff. I had simple foods, soup and the like on hand. I didnt know zofran caused constipation or I would have taken stool softeners, be on the lookout for that. Also whatever she can keep hydrated with, popsicles, gatorade, etc.. keep us posted and we will help you

smalldoggroomer said:

Hi Hubby
You may also want to add Mouth wash alcohol free in case she gets a sore mouth.
Tooth past non abrasive ( no whiteners brighteners or baking soda ) Just plain toothepast
Natural tears ( moisterizing ) Can get dry eyes.
Jello - Pudding - Fruit - Good luck to you both. I also start my Chemo soon.
OH and Lots of {{{{{Hugs}}}}}...!!

greyhoundluvr said:

Hubby -
On the wig - I would say to go with whever one makes your wife feel the best and most confident. Althougn I found a nice synthestic, I ended up with a human hair primarily because it fit the best and I didn't have to worry about it shifting with movement.

As far as preparation, the cheno (especially the initial rounds) can cause either constipation or diarrhea so I would be prepared for both. Her onc should be giving some instructions as to what to use/not use - I had Immodium on hand as well as stool softeners. My onc also had me take Pepto-Bismol tablets more to change the pH and decrease irritation.

We always kept a variety of "fluids" on hand because her tastes may be altered by the chemo. My oncologist said to go with whatever tasted good - the only soft drink she recommended was the ginger ale. Other than that, water, juices, gator ade, lemonade, popsicles, shaved ices, smoothies (became my stand-by). I also kept the soups on hand as well as "nibble" items - I seemed to do better if I kept something on my stomach but ate smaller meals after chemo.

As far as the mouthwash, unless the onc gives her a prescription, I would have both on hand (something like the Biotene) and the homemade one (again if OK with the onc - 1 tsp. baking soda, 1 tsp. salt, glass of water) and maybe alternate during the day. I tried switching just to Biotene and still got a mouth ulcer but it went away quickly when I started using the homemade prep again. I also used these for at least 10 days after my chemo (which is longer than some of the other ladies did) - I only got mouth ulcers twice but both times they occurred on day 8.

Both you and your wife will be in my thoughts and prayers on Wednesday - the first one is scary just because you don't know what to expect for her but it is one step closer to that light at the end of the tunnel!

chenheart said:

I second all who said your
I second all who said your sweet wife needs to be hydrated...water, water, water!! I also agree with Traci about just playing it by ear; your wife may want something one day, and something else another. Or nothing at all, as Kathi said! I had a supply of frozen grapes, and also protein rich snacks~ and just nibbled.

Wigs! There is no right or wrong. Most of us had high hopes for looking "normal" during chemo~ but I also say that 99.99% of us HATED wigs once we got them! It matters not if they are real or synthetic, they itch and are hot! They are great to wear on those occasions when she simply wants to blend into the surroundings as much as possible ( tho losing eyebrows and eyelashes is often a give-away!)..but chances are she will end up going the bandana/hat route or Nekkid! Aside from everything else, unless you live in Australia/New Zealand, the weather is going to get HOT and perhaps even humid, depending on your locale.

As you are already doing, I say continue to Lead With your Heart; and if I may, please remember to tell your wife she isn't cancer, and when she is tired, scared and bald, let her know that isn't what you see, but that you see through that and love her beautiful self.

As for you, if you golf, play 9 holes now and again. If you drink, and this is NOT an indictment, be judicious on the amount. We know this is a battle for two, and it can be emotionally overwhelming for the spouse. One drink can lead to two, and then three..I am sure you see my point and are not insulted. Women in some regards have an 'easier" time. When we have a crisis, we call our girfriends, we go shopping or have a spa day, we do lunch! Men often do not have this same type of outlet, as their guy relationships are by nature different. Play racketball, throw a baseball, do something physical which can recharge you. This too is part of the pre-chemo prep, in my opinion.

Sorry if I have gone on a bit too long here~ I am about to start chemo ( again) soon, and memories of Reggie and me the first time around are flooding in! I hope he and I remember my own advice this time! LOL

Hugs to you both! And, in case I simply forgot, may I ask your wife's name? I feel better referring to her by name instaed of spouse, wife, partner or her!

Claudia

AMomNETN said:

Advice
Hubby,
I can't add much more except I bought a wig before I started chemo. I have found that I don't like wearing it as it is very hot after a while. I wear caps or do-rags most of the time. They are quicker and easier. One other thing is someone told me to eat lemon-heads during treatment to take away some of the metal taste. I also take water to drink during treatment. Drink lots of water and don't be too upset if she doesn't eat a lot during the first week after chemo.