Taxotere, Carboplatin and Herceptin
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I too had herceptin every week during chemo. I was so happy to switch to every three weeks after chemo was over!
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Hello all! Thanks for the reminder to make notes of my symptoms. The days and sx do all run together...what's nice is I was able to go back through my posts (boy do I sound like a complainer, LOL!) and take note of what I was feeling when.
I made the mistake of eating too much at one time last night...WON'T do that again! It definitely resulted in some more uncomfortable GI issues....uggh. So Relda I get what you mean about eating and then having a reaction. Sounds like you and I have very similar presentation of GI symptoms. I find that I tend to get moments of almost feeling ravenous...which I never expected - thought I'd have no appetite. At least I haven't lost my sense of taste yet!
Regarding Herceptin, my protocol is very 3 wks during and post chemo. MDA recommended this, but said we also could do the Herceptin weekly during chemo. So it sounds to me like either way is acceptable.
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Anafoefana Yes, I had Herceptin weekly during chemo and then went to every 3 weeks after chemo ended. I think some doctors want to give the lower weekly dose to reduce the SEs when you first start it. I hated going to the infusion center every week, though. I'm also a bit cynical and can't help but wonder if the weekly doses also have something to do with billing and more revenue for the center. In spite of taking Claritan I had the terrible Neulasta bone pain during the first cycle-I tried everything and the only thing that took the edge off was Aleve. I never had the pain that bad again after the first one...0
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Hi DT
Yep, sounds like we are on a very similar SE path! I too have moments of being ravenous but at the same time not feeling like eating, kind of being scared of eating because of the running to the bathroom ten minutes later thing LOL. So fun. I try to just force myself to eat small amounts throughout the day, sticking to the BRAT diet with a protein shake thrown in here and there. And some chicken too. I forgot to eat bananas last week and the lack of potassium in my system told me I can't do that next time. Can't forget the B in BRAT, duh! I haven't lost my sense of taste but a lot of things just taste off. Hard to describe it but it's annoying as hell. Today I woke up and it looks like I'm starting a little hand and foot syndrome action - the soles of my feet are red and sore as well as my hands, very sensitive to the touch. I'm supposed to,participate in a March of Dimes walk this weekend and since walking from the couch to the bathroom hurts I don't think I'm going to be able to do it. Very disappointing, I wanted to go to support an amazing blogging couple named Heather and Mike Spohr who lost their daughter Maddy three years ago to complications from premature birth at age 17 months and I just don't think I can do it. Cancer sucks.0 -
Uggh Relda on the hand/foot syndrome! My hands have been so dry b/c I'm washing them so much...I moisturize each time afterwards, but they are still getting dry. That sucks about missing the march. Yeah, cancer sucks!
Perhaps I need to do better with the BRAT diet...I don't know...honestly...I've been eating whatever appeals to me (except for staying away from milk products, which I know makes the GI stuff worse).
Well ladies, seems I have new symptom to add to my list. Despite doing regular baking soda mouth rinses, it appears I have developed oral thrush on my tongue. It's all white, even a little green. So gross. Still waiting to hear back from the MD office.
I do have to say I am feeling more energy this morning, and it appears my fever is staying down. Fingers crossed that I am on the mend from that...the fever and GI issues kicked my *ss this weekend.
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dance - I used Aquaphor in a number of places during the time I was receiving chemo, but it worked very well on my hands and feet. I smeared it on liberally and then put cotton socks and gloves on and slept in them. Also, this is probably TMI (if there is such a thing on these boards!) but I also used to sooth the aftereffects of the Big D. My poor little hiney was raw and that can introduce a place for an infection to take hold. It was good for under the eyes after too many Taxotears and cracked lips and (again TMI) in my nose - both to assist with not having nose hair to stop the runny nose and soreness inside. I need to buy stock in Aquaphor! Gold Bond makes a tube of hand sterilizer that also has lotion in it so it doesn't dry your hands out as much - I liked it. Also, sounds like you need the magic mouthwash - you onc should be able to get it for you.
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SpecialK - that's a fantastic idea. I used to sleep with "socked" hands (with lotion) - forgot all about that trick!!! Oh, and to me, none of this is TMI. I need a place to share this stuff and get tips!!!
Onc just called back - they are calling in the magic mouthwash script! He feels all of my symptoms are normal reactions and will do my bloodwork tomorrrow at my appt. I'm feeling better and better as the day goes on. That's good b/c I have my hearing test this afternoon and wasn't sure I'd be able to get myself there!
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DT and relda, I too am on the big D train. Aqtuaphor is a blessing, I buy the big jar, expensive but it works for me. I use it as Special K does. Everywhere! My MO ordered potassium an magnesium pills for me, as I was always low. My leg weakness this weekend seems to be better, perhaps it was low potassium that caused it. I still need my cane. But try to stay hydrated. That is so hard to do. Idont want to end up with renal failure again in the hospital. Sorry about the thrush, I hope that clears up fast. Much love
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Moonflower, this D train sucks! LOL At least we are all on it together. Glad your leg weakness is improved - hope the potassium is the fix!! It is hard to stay hydrated...just get sick of water. I was trying to think of a juice I could drink that didn't have citric acid in it...looked at all the juices at CVS this afternoon - even apple juice is fortified with Vitamin C. (I'm trying to avoid acid b/c I think my reflux is WAY out of control). I'm going to have to go to the organic store. I know they will something yummy and good for me; they have so many cool items.
Well, here's the BEST news I've had in a while - my hearing is PERFECT per the audiologist! That is such a huge relief, since the ringing continues (although it's less intense). She said the risk of losing your hearing with chemo is more a cumulative thing. So....she said I can come back after each chemo for a quick audiogram to make sure no real damage is being done. It only took like 5 minutes for the test. I'm so glad I had it done.
I picked up the Nystatin mouthwash...hope it does the trick!
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Screw this D train I want off! UGH hard to be lieve I got 4 more rounds of this crap. Literally LOL. Oh well, I think with better food intake, some earlier Imodium intervention and those fabulous fluids, hopefully next time will be better. Congrats on the good hearing test DT, woohoo! The only weird hearing thing that's happened to me is an occasional weird static-y, ocean sound, like when you hold a shell up to your ear? That's happened a few times, lasts for about a minute then goes away. Very odd.
So I went and got some bag Balm and a bunch of throwaway socks from the dollar store and I'm on the couch with my feet up slathered in the Balm. It smells icky. Even the cats don't like it
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Part of the problem with figuring out one's SE's, and how to handle them, is that once you get it figured it out they go away and/or you get new ones! Like trying to herd cats!
dance - glad about the hearing! Yay for that! Also, soup counts as liquid. I was just looking at the POM Wonderful juices - they have nothing added, but they do have a lot of sugar. They don't have fiber, which is good if you have the Big D, and they have a fair amount of potassium. Something to consider. I usually diluted my juice with abut 2/3 water. Also, Gatorade contains no fruit juice, but is a good source of electrolytes - too much plain water will upset your electrolyte balance and can make you dizzy and weak.
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For the gals on the D-Train: linky
Foods high in potassium. I know I ate a lot of aprocots but don't eat those when you're riding the D-train.
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Lago, thanks for the link, of course most that is high in potassium is bad for the d. Sweet potato baked are very good, high in fiber, and potassium ie: k+. so I try those often. Relda and DT, sorry you are on this with me, it seemed to be rather rare till you joined me. Yuc, guess its nice to have company, but sorry you have to suffer. I drink slow and mango juice and gaterade when I can find one that is drinkable for me. But, I am diabetic and have to watch the sugar. S o its hard.
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moon - dragonfly, lisaGH and I all had the Big D, don't feel like the Lone Ranger!
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Sweet potatoe recipe. Yes it's good. I made them again last night
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Sweet Potato Oven Fries
-----------------------------------1 large sweet potatoes
1 teaspoon chili powder*
½ teaspoon smoked paprika**
½ teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper*, more to taste
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
2 - 3 Tablespoons olive oil
1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easier clean-up.2. Cut each sweet potato in half cross-wise; then cut each half lengthwise into 3/8 inch wide (tombstone-shaped) slices. Finally cut lengthwise into 3/8 inch wide sticks or "fries."
3. Put sweet potatoes in a plastic bag or tupperware type bowl. Add olive oil (can be spray too) and spices. Shake in bag or cover blow and shake.
4. Spread sweet potatoes on the baking sheet, trying as much as possible for a single layer. Place in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until sweet potatoes have started to brown. Use a spatula to carefully turn over sweet potatoes, if desired. (The potatoes at the edges of the baking sheet tend to brown faster, you may want to rearrange to correct for hot spots.) Bake for another 5 to 10 minutes or until browned to your liking.
Source linky
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*When my taste buds changed the only thing that tasted funny was pepper. It was very bitter tasting. If that happens omit the pepper or make this recipe the following week when the taste buds improve.
** I have made it without the smoked paprika. It's good that way too.
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Specialk, thanks for the reminder, I need to pay more attention! Also that recipe looks so good. LOL. DT, also meant to say good about the hearing. Rrlda, I am surprised the cats, I thought when I had tx, they wouldn't come best me, but they don't care. So if they don't like the balm, that is strange. LOL.
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Well dang specialK...I was hoping this first round would give me a good idea of what to expect. Gah! Someone asked me if subsequent rounds will be worse or the same. I told them I heard it varies, but that overall you do get more and more fatigued as the rounds progress. Is that true? I may break down and do the Gatorade. Doc told me to do no flavor pedialyte to avoid sugar...but egads...I want to puke when I think about it now. I just. can't. do. it. Blech!!
lago - you kill me! Ba-ha-ha!
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Lago - those sweet potato fries look divine! I make a mean curried sweet potato soup. Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite foods!
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Lorraine, I had thrush 3 times while on chemo. It sucks! I had to use Nystatin mouthwash 4 times a day. It was gross, but it worked. I hope they get yours cleared up soon.
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I love getting all of my email updates from this thread!!!
I am just 2 days shy of being 3 weeks past my last TC part of this. In the last couple of days I have noticed I have been retaining copious amounts of fluid. If I sit with my legs crossed, I have big huge indentations from where my legs touch. My weight has been fluctuating between 5 and 7 pounds. Has anyone else have this happen and is this a call the Dr before I see him.on Thursday type of thing?0 -
Ugggh Shannon - it is indeed gross! I'm gonna be religious about that mouthwash! Glad to hear it cleared yours up. How long did it take to clear? I'm supposed to do the mouthwash for a week, I think. Was hoping maybe it'll show improvement earlier...yucko!!
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dougieswife - Taxotere can cause fluid accumulation. I think if it were me I would call. I tend to err on the side of calling and having them tell me not to worry. I figure they know what is important so if it seems odd I usually called.0
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dougieswife - sounds like fluid retention from Taxotere (and maybe Herceptin) and I had this pretty severely after #4, onc put me on a diuretic. I think that lago also went on a diuretic. It should do the trick if your onc will prescribe one.0
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Dougieswife Yes, a lot of us have had significant water retention and swelling at the end of TCH. I had pitting edema i.e. you press the skin and there is an indention just like you described. The good news is that the fluid retention resolved for me within 4-6 weeks. It was a gradual thing that just kept improving over time.
Dancetrancer Although we are all unique my experience was that every round of chemo played out the same way. I always had taste alteration in week one and then regained my taste in week 3 and I always had the big D from day 6-10. Yes, the fatigue got worse with every cycle and lingered longer with each cycle. By the end, I was really tired most of the time but I could still work full-time so it was somehow manageable.
One really encouraging thing throughout chemo was that week 3 of each cycle was always better and helped me to regroup before the next round-physically and emotionally. I remember feeling in the first 2 weeks that I just couldn't imagine doing it again and I dreaded the SEs that were coming. Then, in week 3 I would feel semi-normal and could even eat my favorite curry:) Hang in there...
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Hi gals. Well, I've been up since 2 a.m. with stomach pain/severe reflux. It's been gradually getting worse starting on Sunday and really worsened starting last night. I'm already on a proton pump inhibitor (prescription Prilosec) and have been for about 5 years+ now. I have a history of serious relfux issues. Had finally weaned down to just 1 pill a day. Now I put myself back on twice a day, still having breakthough symptoms, even though I'm still doing the Zofran (I get nausea with my reflux). I've added in Pepcid which is an acid reducer (H2 blocker - different class of drugs from a proton pump inhibitor - doc told me in the past that I can take them together). Oh, and Tums, which of course gives minimal relief. My onc is gonna have to give me something stronger than what I'm currently taking, but I'm not sure what that will be, as I've been through the gamut of relfux drugs over the past 5 years. Well, I guess he could give me prescription level Pepcid. This is NOT good. I'm afraid I'm burning a hole in my esophagus or stomach! I wonder if the dex did it. I think it increases acid production, but I'm not sure. Anyone know? I know NSAIDS will rip your stomach up...I'm suspicious of the steroids, but can't find frank evidence that they are related. Or perhaps it is just the lovely chemo itself.
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dougieswife I had the fluid retention issue of about 4-5 lbs. My onc eventually put me on a very small dose of diuretic 2 months PFC since it still did not go away. I would let your onc know but it still might be a bit early for the diuretic. I was fine for a while but then it started up again (3-4 lbs) 2 months ago after being off the diuretic for several months. I will be seeing my PCP about this. Not sure whats causing it with me.
DanceT I hear you. Prilosuc (OTC or prescription) never did anything for me. (I too had bad reflux years ago). I was on Protonix when on chemo but eventually had to add Carafate Suspension. This stuff was the only thing that worked for me back when I had acid reflux. BTW you know this proton inhibitors can eat up your bones. Do you get bone scans?
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Lago, you are so right about the bone issues...just read this this morning as I was reviewing my treatment options (I think I read it before, but didn't pay attention!!!). I've added it to my list of things to eventually have assessed.
I have Carafate that I started a while back but didn't finish b/c my symptoms resolved with just the prescription Prilosec. I'll ask the doc if he thinks I should add it in again. I wish I could get off the proton pump inhibitors, but never could achieve it. Gosh reflux SUCKS. My sx are nausea and burping rather than actual heartburn. Although last night it was so bad I was actually getting the burn behind my sternum on top of it. If it hadn't responded partly to my meds, I was thinking possible heart issues...but thankfully, appears that was not going on.
I have been up since 2 a.m. with reflux symptoms. Finally was able to take meds (waiting til due)...feeling better now on that front. However I have now switched back to the big freakin' C train. Just took 1/2 a dose of Miralax in my tea. What a miserable see-saw. You know, I think my reflux gets worse as the C starts, b/c my food is slowing down with going through my system, resulting in the acid backing up the esophagus. I can understand why this is happening...just wish I had more control over it.
Thanks for listening everyone. I'm definitely not one who sails through chemo. Thank god I'm not working, b/c only 3 to 4 hours a sleep a night is really wearing me down!
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DanceT I never had D. Just C and heartburn. I too would wake up out of a dead sleep with the burning. I'm sure you know this but don't eat within at least 2 hours of sleeping/lying down. Somethings you shouldn't eat at all at night like chocolate, raisins etc. I know with me it's animal fat too. I actually haven't had a hamburger since 2007. Can't handle the fat and my IBS is very much under control most of the time.0
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Yep lago, I do know all of that, plus we raise the head of the bed so I sleep at an elevation. Never heard of the raisins...but I don't eat them...interesting! Are you still on meds or were you able to eventually control yours with diet/lifestyle modifications? I wish I could get there. My triggers are coffee, alcohol, citric acid in drinks, red sauces in dishes. I'm certainly staying away from all of those!!!
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dance - I did acupuncture during treatment and the one thing I think it really helped with was heartburn. They offerred it at my cancer center for a reduced rate. Maybe it would help you. Also, my onc PA said to me that some people have a hard time differentiating between heartburn and nausea - I think I may have been one of those. For the second treatment I took my anti-nausea meds on schedule and did the acupuncture and didn't have any more heartburn. Can't say if it was due to the meds or Ac but the heartburn went away.0
