Lookin for Tips Tips Tips! - T/C Chemo
I'm optomistically hoping to get the party started in the upcoming month... Taxotere/Cytoxin every 3 weeks x 4.
I've scoured all the posts out here and y'all are BY FAR the experts. Doctors have good intentions but it's the front line who knows the truth. I welcome any and all advice, tips and tricks that will get me through the next few months with flying colors!
My admiration to each of you for a tremendous fight and a sisterhood that instantly welcomes us newbies!!
Hugs to all,
Stace
Comments
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Welcome
Welcome to the boards! Sorry that you need to be hear but you will get so much useful info. Your case sounds almost identical to mine. I was dx in Jan. 10 with IDC right at a cm. Had a lumpectomy in March,no nodes involved. I had the same chemo as you too. Last treatment was on July 2nd. I handled the chemo very well. I was tired mostly I did not really have any nausea. I took my anti nausea meds on the night of tx. even if I felt ok (nurses order) My tx were always on Fridays and generally Sunday was the worst day, just really tired and worn out feeling. I usually did not sleep good for a few nights after tx probably because of steroids. The main thing you can do to get ready for tx is drink lots and lots and lots and lots of water. Before, day of and after the tx. It helps flush the chemo out of your system. Stock up on some of your favorite comfort food. My taste was not effected much but some are. I always craved junk food, steroids get the blame again. Take laptop,books,magazines or something to keep you busy during tx. I always went alone but it is good to have someone with you esp. the first time. I was very blessed that I did well during and after the tx.My hair started coming out on day 13, I had my head shaved on day 14. I chose to do that because I just did not want it falling out everywhere.I had 30 rad tx after the chemo and am about 2 1/2 months into taking Tamoxifen. I am sure I am forgetting something, but feel free to ask anything someone will have an answer for you! God Bless
(((Hugs))) Janice0 -
Hi Stayce!
Chen & Janice covered a lot. I worked through my Chemo so what I did was take my treatment on a Tuesday since typically, you'll "feel" the effects 2-3 days later. So by Friday at around noon, I felt it. Then I would rest the rest of Friday & Saturday. I'd feel better Sunday and back to work Monday.
For me, cancer just throws your world topsy turvy so I needed to gravitate to as much normalcy as possible and that included work.
Expect food NOT to taste normal. Metalic/salty taste. You would have thought that would have stopped me from eating but nah, I still had an appetite. Take Emend before treatments for nausea.
Keep the faith!
Keep active like walking several times a week (unless you feel really tired) then rest!
You WILL come through this stronger and definitely much more appreciative of life!
Let us know how it goes "new" Sister. We're here for you!
Hugs and blessings,
Sylvia0 -
Welcome to the club you
Welcome to the club you never wanted to join! You are right~ we do instantly welcome you and know that from this point forward, all of your appointments will be very crowded! We will all be with you!
I think that most of us will tell you, first and formost DRINK WATER! It is imperative you keep hydrated~ to flush the toxins from your system, and stave off constipation ( an ugly but too common side-effect of chemo)
Get a good thermometer~if your temp goes up to say, 100 CALL YOUR DR! All bets are off during chemo; things we would have ignored and taken tylenol for merit a call to the Dr. Our white cells become depleted during chemo, and we lose our infection fighting soldiers~ chances are if your temp spikes you may need antibiotics.
Chemo can take up a few hours in your day~ take something to distract you! My daughter and I did Mad-Libs, some of course listen to IPods, I have heard of knitting being done and yeah~ napping! You may want to take a lap blanket to snuggle under.
It is important for most women to know that it is fine to realize that we need help!!!! Anyone who wants to bring you something, deliver meals, drive you someplace, run an errand...allow them to! It flies in the face of who most of us are, but trust me, the shoe is on the other foot, and you would ( and probably have) done the same nurturing for others, haven't you???
On a similar note...do NOT ever hesitate to call your cancer center...even at 3AM! Someone will be on call, and they have most likely heard it all before~it is soooo not good to fret and worry about a side effect or something unknown to you. Call! Call! Call! Chances are, you will find out that your chemo nurses are angels with stethesopes...make them your best friends for the time-being~ they are invaluable!
Chemo is no walk in the park, but I also imagine all of us will also tell you it is do-able!
Oh yeah...you will also lose your hair ( and by hair I mean Anywhere and Everywhere you have hair) I really wish I had known that! What a shock! LOL Just a quick tip..it is about average that your hair will start coming out after your 2nd chemo and there is no TLC to keep it from leaving, sad to say. It will shockingly fall out in huge clumps, clogging your drain, covering your pillow and flying all over your kitchen. YUK~ sad, but true. Your scalp can also be very tender..feeling like a way too-tight ponytail. As hard as it is for most of us, the best thing to do is sigh~ shave your head. You can't stop the loss, and it will also stop the pain.
Ok~ I just realized this is probably over loading your poor emotions right now! Sooo sorry!
Other Kindred Spirts will weigh in, giving you tips and hints. And please feel free to ask us stuff along the way!
Hugs,
Chen♥0 -
I knew instantly this wassea60 said:Hi Stayce!
Chen & Janice covered a lot. I worked through my Chemo so what I did was take my treatment on a Tuesday since typically, you'll "feel" the effects 2-3 days later. So by Friday at around noon, I felt it. Then I would rest the rest of Friday & Saturday. I'd feel better Sunday and back to work Monday.
For me, cancer just throws your world topsy turvy so I needed to gravitate to as much normalcy as possible and that included work.
Expect food NOT to taste normal. Metalic/salty taste. You would have thought that would have stopped me from eating but nah, I still had an appetite. Take Emend before treatments for nausea.
Keep the faith!
Keep active like walking several times a week (unless you feel really tired) then rest!
You WILL come through this stronger and definitely much more appreciative of life!
Let us know how it goes "new" Sister. We're here for you!
Hugs and blessings,
Sylvia
I knew instantly this was the right Forum for me to join!! Thank you so much my new sisters for weighing in with no sugar-coating... who's got time to decipher all the nicey nicey?? We've got serious fish to fry here HA! I love to face things positively and head-on and I can't tell you how much your posts have given me
My onco will not know what to do with me and all my notes/questions... these docs really must dread the wonderful world of internet connections.
May each of us find our own silver lining through this seemingly insurmountable task ahead. It is so comforting knowing there is "life" on the other side.
Blessings and hugs to each and every one,
Stace
ps and afterthought... why the steriods? I've read alot of gals have had them -- to combat the neulasta side effects? anyone taking serious pain meds for all the joint pain?0 -
I liked the steroids as they allowed me an energy boostStace_aka_Pollyanna said:I knew instantly this was
I knew instantly this was the right Forum for me to join!! Thank you so much my new sisters for weighing in with no sugar-coating... who's got time to decipher all the nicey nicey?? We've got serious fish to fry here HA! I love to face things positively and head-on and I can't tell you how much your posts have given me
My onco will not know what to do with me and all my notes/questions... these docs really must dread the wonderful world of internet connections.
May each of us find our own silver lining through this seemingly insurmountable task ahead. It is so comforting knowing there is "life" on the other side.
Blessings and hugs to each and every one,
Stace
ps and afterthought... why the steriods? I've read alot of gals have had them -- to combat the neulasta side effects? anyone taking serious pain meds for all the joint pain?
for the day of the chemo. I'm not sure the reason, but i had only 1 side effect, sleeplessness, but that's been the story of m;y life anyways....0 -
You've come to the right place!Mama G said:I liked the steroids as they allowed me an energy boost
for the day of the chemo. I'm not sure the reason, but i had only 1 side effect, sleeplessness, but that's been the story of m;y life anyways....
I can't add much, other than to say Welcome and we all love you already! Keep us posted and know we are with you all the way!
much love,
Jenny0 -
I can't add much either,jennytwist said:You've come to the right place!
I can't add much, other than to say Welcome and we all love you already! Keep us posted and know we are with you all the way!
much love,
Jenny
I can't add much either, covered very well by everyone so far. Just remember the water, so important to flush out those toxins.
Best of luck and keep us posted.
Hugs,
Wanda0 -
Welcome, StaceStace_aka_Pollyanna said:I knew instantly this was
I knew instantly this was the right Forum for me to join!! Thank you so much my new sisters for weighing in with no sugar-coating... who's got time to decipher all the nicey nicey?? We've got serious fish to fry here HA! I love to face things positively and head-on and I can't tell you how much your posts have given me
My onco will not know what to do with me and all my notes/questions... these docs really must dread the wonderful world of internet connections.
May each of us find our own silver lining through this seemingly insurmountable task ahead. It is so comforting knowing there is "life" on the other side.
Blessings and hugs to each and every one,
Stace
ps and afterthought... why the steriods? I've read alot of gals have had them -- to combat the neulasta side effects? anyone taking serious pain meds for all the joint pain?
I also did 4 rounds of TC, from August-October last year.
The steroids are to help stave off an allergic reaction to the chemo drugs. Different doctors have different protocols for when and how they're administered -- I took them orally for about a day and a half before each round, and then they loaded me up with more by IV before each infusion. Some doctors also have you take them for a day or two afterwards.
Whenever and however you take them, the steroids will probably make it tough to sleep while you're taking them, and for a day or so after. It's a good idea to ask your doctor or the chemo nurse in advance what pre-meds they'll be giving you before each chemo round (steroids, Benadryl, anti-nausea are common) -- since they loaded me up on Benadryl before each round, and Benadryl makes me verrrrry sleepy, I asked my doctor if it was okay to take OTC Benadryl at night the week of each chemo, and he ok'd it. It did help a little with the sleeplessness.
Traci0 -
Look Good Feel Better
Stacie, Please attend a Look Good Feel Better session sponsored by the American Cancer Society if at all possible. You will receive a free bag of highend cosmetics and guidance of how to apply to makeup to cover possible chemo side effects. Also, they have wigs if your insurance doesn't allow this expense. If your insurance does pay for a wig be sure and take a friend with you to get a wig and do it before you lose your hair. It feels like halloween when you are trying a wig on and i was in no mood for the wig thing. I was working while on chemo and I had my treatments on Thursday and by Saturday I was in bed for the weekend. Everyone is different in their experience. I'm now a year out from chemo. I was more upset over losing my hair than by breasts. May I encourage you that you can do this as we all have. There is strength is talking to other survivors. I now volunteer for the Look Good Feel Better program so I can encourage other survivors no matter what type of cancer they have.
All my best to you, Carolyn0 -
Carolyn, I've heard aboutcocarolyn said:Look Good Feel Better
Stacie, Please attend a Look Good Feel Better session sponsored by the American Cancer Society if at all possible. You will receive a free bag of highend cosmetics and guidance of how to apply to makeup to cover possible chemo side effects. Also, they have wigs if your insurance doesn't allow this expense. If your insurance does pay for a wig be sure and take a friend with you to get a wig and do it before you lose your hair. It feels like halloween when you are trying a wig on and i was in no mood for the wig thing. I was working while on chemo and I had my treatments on Thursday and by Saturday I was in bed for the weekend. Everyone is different in their experience. I'm now a year out from chemo. I was more upset over losing my hair than by breasts. May I encourage you that you can do this as we all have. There is strength is talking to other survivors. I now volunteer for the Look Good Feel Better program so I can encourage other survivors no matter what type of cancer they have.
All my best to you, Carolyn
Carolyn, I've heard about the LGFB programs and I'll definitely look for one locally (though I'm very remote in NE Michigan)... will check with my NCI on my next visit downstate. My next question on the boards was going to address skin regimens and moisturizing "make-up" suggestions! Is there a website who specializes in the sales of "chemo-compatible" (is this even a word?? ha!!) cleansing and cosmetic produts?
blessings and hugs,
Stace0 -
Welcomecocarolyn said:Look Good Feel Better
Stacie, Please attend a Look Good Feel Better session sponsored by the American Cancer Society if at all possible. You will receive a free bag of highend cosmetics and guidance of how to apply to makeup to cover possible chemo side effects. Also, they have wigs if your insurance doesn't allow this expense. If your insurance does pay for a wig be sure and take a friend with you to get a wig and do it before you lose your hair. It feels like halloween when you are trying a wig on and i was in no mood for the wig thing. I was working while on chemo and I had my treatments on Thursday and by Saturday I was in bed for the weekend. Everyone is different in their experience. I'm now a year out from chemo. I was more upset over losing my hair than by breasts. May I encourage you that you can do this as we all have. There is strength is talking to other survivors. I now volunteer for the Look Good Feel Better program so I can encourage other survivors no matter what type of cancer they have.
All my best to you, Carolyn
My dear Stace. Well, it looks like you have gotten a lot of the information from Chen and Traci, so there is not much I can add. The only thing not mentioned was a port, which is something you might discuss with your oncologist. The port is a device inserted under the skin in your chest, and is used to administer the chemo drugs rather than using your veins. My port was a lifesaver, as I didn't have to be "stuck" each time there was treatment. Also, it can be used for blood draws, etc. They do also give you a prescription for Lanocane which deadens the area over the port about an hour before your treatment. The Emend for nausea is also a wonderful thing. You take it the day before, day of, and for three days after chemo. It truly helps relieve the nausea. (One caution, don't let them prescribe Reglan, which is another nausea med. If they do, just do your research before taking that drug.) Drink lots of water to flush out the toxins in your body, and get plenty of rest. This is definitely doable, but something you should take serious. Pamper yourself, and let others do for you. This is a battle, but one that can be won. Lots of survivors are out here, and we all walk the same path. You now have a place to ask questiosn, vent, share, and generally have a friend to stand by your side. Sometimes, like Chen says, the room is way overcrowded, but you will feel our spirits. Let us know how things go, and post often. Hugs, Judy0 -
Jude, I've jotted the NOcreampuff91344 said:Welcome
My dear Stace. Well, it looks like you have gotten a lot of the information from Chen and Traci, so there is not much I can add. The only thing not mentioned was a port, which is something you might discuss with your oncologist. The port is a device inserted under the skin in your chest, and is used to administer the chemo drugs rather than using your veins. My port was a lifesaver, as I didn't have to be "stuck" each time there was treatment. Also, it can be used for blood draws, etc. They do also give you a prescription for Lanocane which deadens the area over the port about an hour before your treatment. The Emend for nausea is also a wonderful thing. You take it the day before, day of, and for three days after chemo. It truly helps relieve the nausea. (One caution, don't let them prescribe Reglan, which is another nausea med. If they do, just do your research before taking that drug.) Drink lots of water to flush out the toxins in your body, and get plenty of rest. This is definitely doable, but something you should take serious. Pamper yourself, and let others do for you. This is a battle, but one that can be won. Lots of survivors are out here, and we all walk the same path. You now have a place to ask questiosn, vent, share, and generally have a friend to stand by your side. Sometimes, like Chen says, the room is way overcrowded, but you will feel our spirits. Let us know how things go, and post often. Hugs, Judy
Jude, I've jotted the NO REGLAN rule for my onc
Have read a bunch about others' ports yet it hasn't been addressed (yet?) in any of my consults. I do meet with my "new local oncologist" next Friday for our initial getting-to-know-you appt so I'll be prepared.
You've all so quickly filled my heart so that my cup runeth over... cheers and thank you to each of you!!
Stace0 -
Another tip and commentStace_aka_Pollyanna said:Jude, I've jotted the NO
Jude, I've jotted the NO REGLAN rule for my onc Have read a bunch about others' ports yet it hasn't been addressed (yet?) in any of my consults. I do meet with my "new local oncologist" next Friday for our initial getting-to-know-you appt so I'll be prepared.
You've all so quickly filled my heart so that my cup runeth over... cheers and thank you to each of you!!
Stace
Welcome, but sorry you have to be here. I didn't get a lot of problems but to avoid mouth sores, suck on ice or popscicles. I actually managed to get wierd side effects and got a severe peri infection instead of mouth mucus membranes. I had to sit on ice packs to avoid it. I had chemo on Wed. but was very tired on Sat, Sun and sometimes Mon. We are all so different. Best of luck to you and take care...you deserve it.0 -
Ports and skincareTP123 said:Another tip and comment
Welcome, but sorry you have to be here. I didn't get a lot of problems but to avoid mouth sores, suck on ice or popscicles. I actually managed to get wierd side effects and got a severe peri infection instead of mouth mucus membranes. I had to sit on ice packs to avoid it. I had chemo on Wed. but was very tired on Sat, Sun and sometimes Mon. We are all so different. Best of luck to you and take care...you deserve it.
Stace,
My oncologist also never mentioned a port -- I assumed it was because I was only having 4 rounds combined with the fact that I have great veins (brag, brag, brag -- I know! :-). I had no problem without a port. But definitely have the conversation, just to see what your oncologist thinks for your particular situation.
I didn't notice any skin changes with TC, and didn't do anything different with my skincare routine -- same cleanser, moisturizer, and prescription rosacea cream as always. All my facial hair stopped growing (my eyebrows didn't fall out, they just kind of froze in place), so it was sure nice to not go near my tweezers for several months! Of course, we all react differently, but it may not be a problem for you.
Traci0 -
I had a facial rash fromTraciInLA said:Ports and skincare
Stace,
My oncologist also never mentioned a port -- I assumed it was because I was only having 4 rounds combined with the fact that I have great veins (brag, brag, brag -- I know! :-). I had no problem without a port. But definitely have the conversation, just to see what your oncologist thinks for your particular situation.
I didn't notice any skin changes with TC, and didn't do anything different with my skincare routine -- same cleanser, moisturizer, and prescription rosacea cream as always. All my facial hair stopped growing (my eyebrows didn't fall out, they just kind of froze in place), so it was sure nice to not go near my tweezers for several months! Of course, we all react differently, but it may not be a problem for you.
Traci
I had a facial rash from taxol. dont know if youget it with taxotere but they are similar drugs.0 -
Hi Stace
welcome to the bc site. I have had 4 treatments of Taxotere/Cytoxan and will have #5 on Tuesday and #6 Nov. 23. I also get a Neulasta shot the following day. I have poor veins so I had a Purple Power Port placed in my chest and infusion has gone smoothly. I take Dexamethasone and Emend as prescribed by my oncologist. Side effects, although annoying are manageable. Drink lots of water to stay well hydrated. I use Biotene products so my mouth doesn't get dry. Eat small frequent meals instead of 3/day. I use Immodium when needed. I also attended a Look Good, Feel Better program and it was great. Wishing you well as you start your treatments.
{{hugs}} Char0 -
Hi Stace, wow I really can't
Hi Stace, wow I really can't add much to what my sisters have told you (they always do such a fabulous job) except perhaps using ice chips to prevent mucositis (sores in your mouth). If you google: ice chips during chemo, you'll see lots of info. They didn't give it to me for the taxotere and my mouth and throat were on fire. Also if you could keep your hands and feet cool as well that may help prevent neuropathy which can last a long time. Keeping them cool prevents the blood vessels from dilating so the chemo will not reach and therefore damage the nerves in your feet/hands/mouth. I don't know if I've explained that well but the technique is used for that reason. I wish I had of known when I did taxotere. The best of luck to you, I hope it goes well..
jan0 -
Thx Jan! (and also the restphoenixrising said:Hi Stace, wow I really can't
Hi Stace, wow I really can't add much to what my sisters have told you (they always do such a fabulous job) except perhaps using ice chips to prevent mucositis (sores in your mouth). If you google: ice chips during chemo, you'll see lots of info. They didn't give it to me for the taxotere and my mouth and throat were on fire. Also if you could keep your hands and feet cool as well that may help prevent neuropathy which can last a long time. Keeping them cool prevents the blood vessels from dilating so the chemo will not reach and therefore damage the nerves in your feet/hands/mouth. I don't know if I've explained that well but the technique is used for that reason. I wish I had of known when I did taxotere. The best of luck to you, I hope it goes well..
jan
Thx Jan! (and also the rest of you with stellar advice!!) My darling husband, who's been researching like crazy since my dx, said something about soaking my fingertips in ice during the chemo tx and I thought he was loco!! I'll definitely google it and then, with great dread, tell him how right he was. LOL God bless him, really, he's been absolutely incredible these past 3 months!!
blessings and hugs,
Stace0 -
Hi Stace & again, welcome. IStace_aka_Pollyanna said:I knew instantly this was
I knew instantly this was the right Forum for me to join!! Thank you so much my new sisters for weighing in with no sugar-coating... who's got time to decipher all the nicey nicey?? We've got serious fish to fry here HA! I love to face things positively and head-on and I can't tell you how much your posts have given me
My onco will not know what to do with me and all my notes/questions... these docs really must dread the wonderful world of internet connections.
May each of us find our own silver lining through this seemingly insurmountable task ahead. It is so comforting knowing there is "life" on the other side.
Blessings and hugs to each and every one,
Stace
ps and afterthought... why the steriods? I've read alot of gals have had them -- to combat the neulasta side effects? anyone taking serious pain meds for all the joint pain?
Hi Stace & again, welcome. I came to this site while waiting my biopsy results & have found more peace & assurance & information here than anywhere else. We're here for you
I love your attitude. I agree with you about facing things head on, taking care of business, as positively as you can, will help get you through this. Chemo sucks. Hardest thing I've done. Although nausea/vomiting was not really an issue for me, the sheer exhaustion I felt, at times literally too tired to hold my head up, was the worst of it. I also had (still have lingering around) alot of pain. I was on 4 rounds of AC, followed my 2 rounds of Taxotere. More so on the AC, I had TERRIBLE pain going down my spine, up to my neck, and across my shoulders. At first my Onc thought it was the neulasta, but the pain has stayed constantly through the chemo & only started to subside when I finished my AC treatments, so he said that it was a side effect of the chemo. I have been on percocets for the back pain since I started chemo. I still wake up every day in alot of pain, but it is starting to subside.
One weird side effect I got on Taxotere was a bad rash/burn on the palms of my hands. I got it after both infusions I had of T. Started as redness on palms, spread to the tops of my hands & eventually my skin got really dry & peeled off. The first time I waited a few days until I called my Onc about it, they gave me steroids to take which did help, but the 2nd time I got the steroids right away & it prevented ALOT of the pain & peeling that I had with the 1st taxotere treatment. They told me it was a common taxotere side effect-my suggestion would be as soon as you get any side effects, to contact your Onc so they can get you any meds before the side effects get too bad.
Please ask away any questions & concerns that you have, it's what we're here for
*hugs*
Heather0 -
StaceStace_aka_Pollyanna said:Thx Jan! (and also the rest
Thx Jan! (and also the rest of you with stellar advice!!) My darling husband, who's been researching like crazy since my dx, said something about soaking my fingertips in ice during the chemo tx and I thought he was loco!! I'll definitely google it and then, with great dread, tell him how right he was. LOL God bless him, really, he's been absolutely incredible these past 3 months!!
blessings and hugs,
Stace
Not much to add but good luck, With your positive attitude you are going to do well. I had 4 treatments/ every 3 weeks of t/c. (the same as you) After chemo I felt very tired for at least 5 days. The steriod med's made me feel wired but after that it's a come down time. That is when I felt tense, snappy, and couldn't sleep so I take Lorazapam and it does help. It hasn't effected my appetite!! I eat as usual maybe more. Also, May I suggest getting a couple of binders and subject dividers and keeping a journal of everything (biopsies, pharmacy reports for meds, etc. and also journal what you are feeling so you can check back with each chemo treatment.
I refer to mine and journal often.
I didn't have mouth issues except I do feel something on my tongue now and then and right away I rinsed my mouth with salt water and it does not errupt. I always rinse after brushing with biotene. I have 1 more chemo treatment to do yet.
Hugs to Ya'
You have come to the best board. We are always here to help.
Annette0
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