Cytoxan Taxotere Chemo Ladies- February/March 2013
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mapgirl, I hope you get things cleared up quickly!
jmg58, I had 99.6 once with my first chemo, so can't give you any advice, but I'm glad your MO is on top of it. I hope it subsides soon and doesn't get worse.
I had a port "installed" when they did my LX and SNB, for my infusions and didn't have to deal with the PICC either. Maybe someone else here can help you with that.
I guess I wasn't any help, but wanted to let you know that I hope you get better soon!!!
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jmg, those little things make the chemo treatment more painful and looong! Maybe the nurses can give you some advise on how to take showers with it? During my BMX home care sent a nurse and also an aid to bathe me. The nurse has to evaluate you and see if you require that service. The insurance paid for it.
For the infusion, i had four and always in one arm. The nurses are great and find the way to find the veins. My veins are very hard to find and they used the ones on top of my hand.
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jmp58- Try to stay calm and keep breathing. I was told to monitor my temperature while I was in chemoland. I was also told the same about holding back on the Tylenol to see if I really had an infection. I had one high spiking fever/chills event during my 6 rounds of chemo. It occurred two weeks after my 2nd round of chemo and I was not receiving Neulasta shots at the time.. I was fortunate in that I did not have to go to the ER but instead my onco called in prescriptions for 2 strong antibotics. The antibotics did knock out whatever infection I had but it meant that I would be receiving Neulasta shots for Rounds 3-6. Hang in there and call the MO again if you have further questions or your temperature climbs and stay there.
Mapgirl- How are you doing today? If you are still having issues, call the MO today. Make sure you write down on the calendar when the hives started, where they started and a brief description of them. You will want to give that info to your onco before you have that next round of chemo.
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JM - I had four TC treatments but had a port. It was painful the day it was inserted, but has been really easy to deal with since then. I will be getting it out soon as I finished chemo in November. Sorry you are having trouble! Your PICC line sounds annoying! Glad your fever came down!
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Thank you for all of your support. I spoke with my MO's NP first thing this morning. Dermatologist had already scheduled me for 11:45. Derma biopsied the hives hoping to have the test results in 2 days. Derma told me to continue the Benedryl, add 1 Allegra in the morning, 1 Allegra in the afternoon, and Zertec in the evening to control the hives as we decrease the steroid. Derma did not have any suggestions to manage the itching and the swelling in both hands, face and right arm (lumpectomy side). Derma said that once I finish the steroids all would return to normal.
Fortunately I had a follow up appt scheduled for tomorrow with the vascular surgeon. We added an ultrasound for my arm. NP and I are going to talk tomorrow afternoon to see if MO wants to see me on Wednesday. (MO and vascular surgeon trust each other and will communicate directly with each other) Today is day 3 so if everything clears up tomorrow I will jump for joy!
To add insult to injury my seroma (space where the tumor was has fluid inside that my body is suppose to absorb but does not) on my lump breast decided the fluid drained out this morning.
The good news is that I do not have ANY sores on my tongue (thank you Biotene) and I still have some taste buds left.
Thank you all again for your guidance! I would have not been able to get this far without all of you! (((HUGS)))
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I am glad you have your people working for you, mapgirl!
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Yikes! You all are scaring me with the fever and hives stories! My first round went ok except for feeling crummy for a week. I'm feeling good now but have to go in for round 2 on Thursday.
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JMG - when you're ready to shower, wrap the arm & PICC line in Glad Press'N Seal. Better than Saran for this purpose. Works like a charm & really keeps wounds, casts, piccs, etc. dry. I wrapped around my entire chest after BMX - drains and all - so I could shower.
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Oh, thank you, MinusTwo, I will get some of that! Feeling a bit better today; no fever yet but each day started out like that...fever started as day progressed....NADIR starts like tomorrow, so I'm hoping the fact I woke up in the middle of the night in a sweat means fever is gone. Do have more energy so far today so that's good!
Hope all goes well, mapgirl!
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Hi gang. I know it has been a while since I have checked in. I am halfway through Rads. I am on a trial that means higher doses of Rads for less time. I have been lucky- no burning yet- but am smearing on Aquaphor and in the evening, Calendula, a homeopathic gel. I am still fighting major fatigue, but it is easier than chemo.
Just to chime in for you Newbies, I can share some thoughts about T/C 4, the good and the bad. I am sure you will have already learned lots if not all of this from the marvelous women on this site who saved me & I know it is pretty basic. It occurs to me that chemo is a bit like labor. I cannot remember the full extent of the pain.....
1. Of course, I drank a ton of fluids the day before, the day of, and the day after to try to flush out toxins
2. I allowed myself to listen to my body and eat whatever it said to eat. I lived on Mac and Cheese and Chicken Soup. I did drink a huge amount of a natural Ginger Ale type drink from Trader Joes.
3. I used the most gentle body wash I could find, something like Burt's Bees, and once I was shaved and bald, a very gentle organic shampoo.
4. In the night, when I couldn't sleep, I did have to use the Ativan or the Ambien. Otherwise, no sleep. Even for someone who prefers not to use drugs, it was crystal clear how much I needed one of these meds.
5. Only the first Neulasta shot bothered me with terrible bone pain. It was tough, to be honest. I do remember that much. The following Neulasta shots were never ever as difficult, but I did take Claritan the day before, the day of, and a few days after.
6. For nausea, I found the Compazine did the trick.
7. Bless Cranberry Juice. I drank it nonstop during chemo because, without it, I learned (after my first treatment) that by about the 5th day post chemo, I had burning/urine/bladder infection symptoms. Cranberry Juice prevented those after my other treatments. IF you have symptoms though, DO call your MO becuase you don't want it to become serious.
8. The effects did accumulate and by my last treatment, I was fatigued in a way I never could have fathomed before. The upside is that the other side effects seemed to lessen, replaced by what can only be called unfathomable leaden fatigue. This is where I learned really listening to my body. It screamed to rest and rest I did.
9 I was surprised by the depth of emotions during and following my final chemo. I had been trying to be "strong" all the way through, but suddenly, I had no control. I was furious and crying constantly. It was as though I suddenly could not continue trying to be strong. Or perhaps I was on auto-pilot, impressing everyone on how I kept going, and finally could fall apart. Emotions I didn't even know I felt surfaced. Now, I have learned that part of that is really biochemical and can be reactions to both steroids and the chemo drugs. It also became clear and continues to be clear to me that there are almost stages of grief here not dissimilar to other losses. I guess what I am saying is be gentle with yourselves and keep reaching out to this site. We all get it.
9. So far, I am not seeing any further effects from the Taxotere. I keep waiting to lose my nails and haven't. I did nothing for them, to be honest, so am surprised. I did lose my eyebrows and hair, but now little wisps of hair are reappearing, just like spring buds. I did not get any mouth sores, but brushed with Biotene toothpaste for dry mouth religiously. I have very slight tingling in my hands, but extremely slight. So far so good. I am hoping that you find this to be true, as well.
Of course, eveyrone is different, and I can only speak for myself about side effects, but I do know that You can get through this. Meet you on the other side, momat927
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Thank you, mamat927! I have only had one treatment, so I am still a newbie and really appreciate the added tips. I don't have any sores in my mouth yet as I have been doing the Biotene toothpaste & mouthwash religiously and baking soda/salt rinse once a day. However, today, the tip half of my tongue is bright bright red....and the rest is normal or turning white. The tip/red part is sensitive and sort of burning. Is this the precursor to sores or thrush? Anyone else have this and can tell me what to expect to happen with this? Thanks!
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jmg58, I don't remember having a burning on my tongue, but I did have thrush. Yes, your tongue turns white and your mouth may feel dry. Kind of like you have a sock in your mouth! UGH...
My MO told me to take probiotics, which didn't help. I ate a lot of yogurt, which didn't help...had to get a RX which cleared it up. I got thrush each TX...
You should probably mention it to your MO so you can get something if you need it. The RX I took, took a few days to show results...
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img58 - good that you are staying on top of your temps. I take mine about 4 times a day now; more if I feel a chill or flushing. I flushed after the first chemo - kind of like menopause flushing. No fever so ok. The nursing staff and MO have always told me/us at the Cancer Center that if you temp reaches 38c (Canada) then to GO TO THE ER; no ifs, ands or buts - just go. They scared the *#!* out of me, so I knew it was important.
After each treatment I would have similar and different side effects; it has taught me to take it a day at a time. Do not panic, just take your temp, take some photos, phone your cancer center contact person or MO. Read up online (here) about the drugs and the side effects; fore knowledge is forwarned. I think if they just told us the 'worse case scenerio' from the beginning it would alleviate any 'unknown fears'; but that could just be me. I am not very good about reading between the lines - when it comes to medical stuff.
Hang in there; live the journey.
Carren
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Thanks, ladies. Since my tongue is burning even with the Biotene, they're phoning in a prescription for thrush...better safe than sorry. I'm SO GLAD my temp is not over 99.5 today!!! I feel SO MUCH better! It's good advice to take one day at a time, Carren. I'd like to just keep these same minimal SE each time, but I guess that would be too good to be true!!
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jmg, they also gave me something called "Magic Mouthwash" I did use it once, after my first treatment, when my mouth felt a bit sore. good luck. momat
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I had thrush every time and then a vaginal yeast infection a couple of times! Its good to get started on the Rx right away otherwise your mouth becomes so gross and everything tastes even more awful!
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I just got this Nystatin stuff that they said to swish and swallow 4x a day. I've felt very lucky in that I haven't been nauseous at all yet. The pharmacist says this stuff may do it though. Anyone had that experience? Hope not!!!
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jmg - My BS sent an RX for Nystatin mouthwash. I didn't swallow. The MO sent an RX for 'magic' mouthwash. This is a specialty compounded formula so needs a pharmacy what can handle- usually nystatin/lidocane/benedryl. I only needed it twice. Good luck.
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Momat927, how many rounds of TC did you have? 4 or 6? I'm getting ready for round 2 tomorrow. Thanks for giving the long term perspective. I know, sometimes I was uncontrollably emotional after round 1.
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AKJ, good luck with your TX tomorrow!
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Update: I had my third treatment last Thursday. So far I am doing really good especially with my weight. I haven't lost or gained weight which my Oncologist said is good. He asked me about mouth sores I told him I haven't had them he looked in my mouth said that I need to keep hydrated. Been drinking water and Gatorade a lot. I cut back on sodas even ginger ale even flat makes my tummy gassy. Told him about the fevers from the last time he doesn't want me on the shot because I am bouncing back quickly white blood cell wise for him not to give me the shot. He did give me a prescription for an antibiotic just in case I need it. He agreed to get zantac or something to help with my occasional heartburn. Once this one was done we will know if I will do the two more on my fourth treatment which is soon. He feels it will happen since I am doing so well with the three I have done.
This third one I have been tired a lot more. Joint pain not as bad still sore in certain areas. Taste is still bland the first few days got them back yesterday was so happy to actually taste food and it not taste bland! I did ask if I could take vitamin d to help my white blood cells he said it wouldn't hurt I read it in an article. Plus I did drink chamomile tea and teas with rose hips in it to help the joint pain. Rested a lot and my work has finally got me working shorter shifts and spacing me apart. So this week was easier I went to work Sunday for 4 hours and I was exhausted. I was off the last two days going in later on here today. I think so far this one was a little bit easier but I still have a few more days to go to see how I do.
For those who just joined welcome! I am going through my third treatment and about to go on my fourth. I go every three weeks so mine might be less. I think everyone is different when it comes to treatment but somethings to know before you start is to have these things handy just in case you need it for symptoms:
Tylenol-Very handy for fevers.
Washcloth-When you need to cool down from the fevers this will help.
Immodium Ad pill form: My coordinator told me to get this before I start.
Find out if you are getting an anti-nausea medicine to have at home. My oncologist gave me this too before I started to get filled before treatment.
Keep a list of any symptoms you may have. I made a binder will explain if anyone wants me too in a different thread. That way you can tell your dr on your visits on treatment day.
I found that lemon candies help but I also use my alcohol free mouthwash to help my taste buds it sometimes works but sometimes it doesn't.
Zantac or other heartburn pill: I have had occasional heartburn but I have heard it can get intense.
If you are not getting the shots ask about an antibiotic if you keep getting the fevers.
Good luck!
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Just wanted everyone here to know how wonderful it is that everyone keeps coming back and continues to post!!!! The continued support and help that each contributes here is important and many read this thread even though they may not post. We leave no one behind here; that is how we continue to move forward together.
Wishing those still in chemoland, easy times in the Big Girl Chair aka BGC and minimal side effects!!
Those who are finished with chemo, I am truly grateful that each of you returns here and supports those in the midst of chemo. Each of you reassures those who are just starting that one can get through whatever comes her way.
HUGS!!!!
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Melrose, I am done with chemo and with exchange. Yes, we can do this!
Still missing nipple reconstruction and tattooing. I will keep all of you posted! Went to buy new bras, love them!
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Dexamethasone (steroid) is coursing through my veins along with caffiene, sugar, salt and starches. I am hyper and aggressive - ha ha. I take 8mg twice today (and next 3 days) and have my fourth and FINAL CHEMO tomorrow; or so the Nurse Practitioner said today. I popped down to Radiation and got a timeline for that. They will call in the beginning of April to set up time for Scan and Tattooing and then onto the treatments. So, within 4 - 6 weeks I will be starting that part of the treatment. I am doing a happy dance - inside me today. We rock this cancer ladies. No matter how low we go or how long it seems - we can do ALL THINGS! Remember this.
Today when they weighed me for the next chemo I have offically gained 32 pounds since my BC surgery; so I took matters in my own hands and went to talk to my neighbour - who I sort of know. I know (thru husband) she has diabetes SO I asked her if SHE would help me get out and walk daily and she agreed. Once around the trailer park will be a start for us both. Maybe as we will go farther as the snow leaves.
Now that Chemo is over - I can focus back on losing weight (currently 227#). My knees are hurting from the excess weight. I tell you all this that you will NOT be discouraged if you lose weight or gain weight. It is what it is for a SHORT period of time. Think of it as a goal for after Chemo. I know that after doing this regime, believe it or not, I am going to miss it. The social aspect, visiting with my girlfriend who is my main support, talking to others at the clinic and just getting out to do something. So now it is back to getting detoxified, healthy eating - with or without taste buds and walking since I do not do gyms nor do I have exercise equipment at home.
Melrose - LOL about the BGC - so like that! I agree, I really do use you all as a support group. I actually have looked for and asked around for a group here where I live - and there is nothing. The Cancer Society will set up some 8 weeks groups on and off but really, there should or it would be nice if there was a 'walk-in' type of group that met if not every week then bi-weekly. Some place where you would feel safe from germs, learn about side effects and what to do about them or even how to handle some of the questions, depressions and suggestions we learn about or hear about. Does anyone on here go to a group like that? Can you give me more info.
Rambling now - the caffiene is starting to subside. Have a good one ladies. Smile, breath - go to your happy place and remember to play today.
Carren
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Thanks keepthefaith! I'm not as nervous this time as I was the first. I feel like I know what to expect and what to eat. All the chemo will be over in a few months. Then like Carren, I'll be onto phase three.....radiation. I'm sure that will bring it's own set of annoyances but when I think of where I was and how I felt when I was first diagnosed, I feel like I've come a long way. We can do this!
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Carren, I know what you mean about the dex. I've been hyped up all day but had a very productive day at work! Congratulations on your final chemo and your recovery plan! You'll be my role model tomorrow!
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Headeast- what brand of bras? I cannot find any that fit well and/or don't hurt the foobs....
Praying for you all in the throes...it will get better! YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!
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Carren, good luck on your last chemo today! Congrats! I know what you mean about losing weight. I have gained 9lbs since chemo. I am reducing my food intake and getting out to walk. My MO said when I start on my HT in a couple mos, weight loss will be more difficult...great news, huh? Nice that you reached out to a neighbor to get started!
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keepthefaith: sorry to hear you are gaining too. Another Gal at Chemo had gain 15# and she is really tiny so it was like 3 - 4 dress sizes - all she could wear was yoga pants. Since I had originally lost 45# - which is how I found my lump - I, too, had no more 'fat(ter) clothes' left. I did find one small bag for the thrift store; so I now have one pair of yoga pants and a few wholly T-shirts for home. LOL Oh, well, not for long.
akj: don't let any wt gain get your down. Hindsight is a wonderful thing - but useless, for me, now. ha ha
Dexa: Got to bed around 2:30am - woke up at 5am - piddled - got onto the Insomnia Group here - back to bed until the husband had coffee made around 8am. Just in time to take another Dex. Today I get a Benedryl Infusion before drugs, so I doubt I will have trouble sleeping tonight - Dex or not.
Cat Fight: All was well, just finished giving the cat his morning back and stomach massage - I know, I know, then he (30#)turned 'wild cat' and result is one scratch and one nail poke and a cat that is lucky to be alive. Why? All injuries on my right arm - my chemo arm. The poke is almost in the same place they put the iv on the hand. However, after two cups of coffee and breakfast and some antibacteria soap scrubbing and hand sanitizer etc - he is safe to come out from under the bed. You might think I am overreacting but not really. When I was working at the veterinary clinic, assisting the tech, I got a cat bite that landed me in the hospital for a week and where was the bite? On my right (chemo) hand. Major flashback, which was more scary than the cat fight. I am sure they will have no problems - since my cat is healthy and all. If not, they can just move up the arm to the elbow. TIme will tell.
Thanks for listening. Carren
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AKJ- so sorry I am just getting back to you! I had 4 rounds of T/C not 6. Let us/me know how you are doing.
Ladies, I am smack in the midst of radiation now. I thought I would breeze through. It is clearly easier than chemo, but I am beginning to burn, feel the added fatigue and have chills. Guess I had better learn about this next step!!!
By the way, I an finding the Gilda's Club support group really helpful. Took me a longggg time to go and I am still too much in my facilitator head BUT so helpful to have a place where I dont need to explain
I will keep checking in to see if I can be of help to you Newbies. I was a Newbie only about 7 months ago
Hugs, momat
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