Starting Chemo in December 2016
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just had 5 th out of 8 cmf chemo treatments. this morning I checked my sugar after my husband. he is diabetic but I am not.
i test myself occasionally and usually around 98. this morning reading 150!
read online that chemo can destroy insulin producing cells! guess i'll ask dr in 2 weeks if readings stay that high.
in the meantime, I will try to cut down on bread and sweets! bummer!
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I am a December chemo starter.
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Summer--I just found this type of peeling on my heel the other day and didn't put two & two together until I saw your pic. I felt like my heels were on fire after my 3rd round, a month ago. My throat feels raw too, and my tongue feels like it was burned, I'm 10 days past the last infusion. I lost my taste back in Nov. I read about the weight gain, there are forums out there that assure that the weight comes off a couple months after chemo ends if that helps.
I just want to tell everyone that starting at infusion #3 you really start feeling the damage it's causing on your body. I just had #4 ten days ago and I feel like #3 & #4 have had longer side effects, the fatigue is deeper, and both were emotionally challenging since the weeks "off" were spent fighting SE's longer so I never really get to feel like myself for very long to mentally prepare for the next fight. After number 3, I seriously thought that if I had more than 1 more after that, I'd consider quitting. Hopfull2--I was mentally where you are. Thank goodness I didn't have to make that decision but I would have chosen to stick with it because I NEVER want to go through this hell again and if something happens and I'm faced with it again, I know I did everything in my power the first time so it's off my conscious. No regrets.
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How are you ladies dealing with the S/Es of your anti-nausea meds? My first Taxol has been mess with terrible stomach issues. Thought it was a virus, but doc says chemo it is all chemo related. He added Imodium and Phenergan, but now all I can do is sleep. This isn't working since I have a full-time job and family to care for.
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Hi Pamela23---------I'm sorry to hear you too have experienced the burn and peeling. I can't imagine it on my heels as my fingers where terribly painful! Not sure how you were able to walk on them. My MO gave me Udderly Smooth cream it seems to feel a bit better than O'Keeffe's at the moment. I believe Bearclaws mentioned Aloe juice for mouth burning. I will try that as well. As for weight gain, I sure hope they are correct for us older gals that are being chemically moved to menopause and will be on Tamoxifen, otherwise I wouldn't be so worried. I'm anxious to hear when you taste returns as mine has been gone since 2nd treatment. Everything taste bitter, sour or metallic
It has cut my calorie intake. ---Continued well wishes! Oh, please keep me posted on how Tamoxifen is when you take it. Thanks!0 -
Hi and welcome Buildermom. I believe you will find great tips and a lot of support here. Wishing you the best on this journey!
Chickensandgoats----I will be honest. I had stayed away from bread for the past few years but now that I am on chemo I try to use food for my GI issues more than meds. I am constantly adjusting per meal pre GI issue what I will eat....more bananas and bread or more salad and fruits....I try very hard to take as little meds as possible and to adjust the type of food.----not sure if that is a help for you as our bodies are all different!
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Pamela23, glad your doing better. My 5th t/c is this Thursday. I'm terrified to feel the way I felt last time. Abs your right. 3and 4 are harder on the body. I'm still recovering now from SE.
Question for anyone, do you guys feel body aches even on your good weeks. And does anyone notice swelling on the face. My face seems a bit different. Like puffier a bit. No one can notice because I have a thin face to begin with but I notice. My eyelids are puffier. And my body feels like if I've had a big workout the night before. I think the swelling of my face is the steroids.
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Hello all: I was diagnosed with breast cancer local recurrence on October 3, 2016 - I was diagnosed with Stage 1 ER/PR + Her2- on May 15, 2015 - had a lumpectomy on July 10, 2015 followed by 8 weeks of radiation that began in August and finished on October 1, 2015. Then a year later, I felt a lump while visiting our freshman daughter at college, and was diagnosed wit breast cancer again.
Started chemotherapy on December 1, 2016 with A/C every 2 weeks and just finished that round on January 15, 2017. Lost my hair on December 18, 2016 15 days after my first treatment and 2 days after my second A/C.
Just started Taxol on January 26, 2016 and have 11 more weeks to go.
Personally, I just really want my hair back - having a hard time with the hair loss. Still have my eyebrows and lashes but was told that may be temporary.
My main problem after my last A/C and my recent Taxol is my eyes won't stop tearing, I just have drops flowing out of them which is making my eyes red, crusty and sore - has anyone had that problem while on chemo?
If all goes well, I will finish Taxol mid April and will have my bilateral mastectomy in May/June.
I am also an elementary school teacher and have been working through all of this, just missing a day a week for chemo now with Taxol - will see how long I can make it because the chemo fatigue is a lot to deal with as an elementary teacher, at least for me
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For me, it's the back of my hands on fire and peeling. My hand/fingers are swollen and hot. A cold compress or soaking in cold water helps when it's bad and I take Tylenol at bedtime.
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Im starting chemo tomorrow and am anxious as all get out. Reading these tips are great info for me to prepare. ID love to be "added" to this group if po
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Thanks to all of you for your warm welcome to this group! And I will in turn welcome Buildermom, Flomom14, and Camarillomom. So glad to have all of you! I'll add my two cents about a couple of side effects:
Mouth sores - Mine were the worst when my WBC's were low after the first round (without Neulasta and ending up in the hospital with neutropenic fever). I was prescribed "Duke's" mouthwash - sometimes called "Magic" mouthwash. You have to get it formulated from certain pharmacies. It includes something for pain as well as antibiotics and antifungals. I'll be interested to try the Aloe juice for the burnt feeling that I get now. I also sucked on ice chips during the last round per MO advice.
Skin peeling - Oh, your poor hands and fingers! I only had tiny spots at the very tips of my fingers, near the nails. I used Aquaphor on them and that helped. I've mostly had more like skin drying and flaking - first back of hands, then bottoms of feet, then palms, now lower legs. None of that hurts - it's just like all of my skin decided to change over at once.
GI problems - So it turns out that chemo and NSAID's and steroids can ALL work against your stomach. I was diagnosed with gastritis and esophagitis and reflux. The lump in my throat was from esophageal spasms from the reflux with the horrible acid burps. Being on Prilosec has made almost all of that go away. We'll see what happens with this next round. I'm planning a constant stream of cold beverages during the chemo drugs.
Eyes/Nose - I've had the dripping eyes and nose at times. I read that the eye problem can actually be from dry eyes (sounds weird) which I already had. Eye drops that are moisturizing can help. Don't know what to do about the nose except keep a tissue nearby. I expect that has to do with my bloody nose issues, too.
Hair/Scalp - I had my hair buzzed to about a quarter inch when it started falling out like crazy. I was told I would lose my hair and it was very traumatic for me. However - it hasn't all left! It's patchy on the top and sides but much thicker on the back. Some is still falling out and some is growing! I almost wish it would all just go. This just looks so weird. I've been using Nioxin 3 shampoo and conditioner and that seems to make my scalp feel better.
I was about ready to quit after round 2 - so discouraged about how I was feeling after being hopeful that the changes in dosages would make a difference. I've been feeling almost normal for about a week now so at least I've had that. Next round is Wednesday. Ugh!
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Has anyone else had the red on the back of their hand like my pic? I called the cancer center today because it's not getting any better and hurting and MO thinks it might be some localized lymphedema since I did have lymph nodes removed from my left side and it's not nearly as bad on my right hand, so I have to go see the physical therapist who specializes in lymphedema. Ugh, I sure hope that's not the case - or that it's only temporary! He also wants me to start on a steroid pack. I really don't want to do more steroids, but I guess if that will make it better, I'll have to do it...
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Camirillomo- welcome to our Chemo group. I hope your first round goes ok. It's usually much less traumatic receiving the chemo than you're imagining. Unfortunately it's the side effects that start a few days later that cause the issues but you can do this!
Gingkoleaf- I totally hear you with the whole 'not looking like the emaciated cancer patient portrayed on tv'. I'm working in pharmacy and it surprises me everyday when I get the weird looks at my head scarves and comments like"what did you do to your hair?" My customers don't seem to think I fit the 'cancer patient' description. Good luck for your final infusion and congratulations on your completion! Not sleeping- me too, mine is the combination of steroids, hot flushes and just the general chaos cancer causes, which I'm sure sounds familiar to us all.
ILSunrise- sorry to hear you're also suffering the day & night sweats, they are such a pain! Hope your recent chemo round went ok.
Flomom14- I too suffer from the teary and crusty eyes. I've tried moisturising drops but no improvement plus I find my eyes seem to sting with any drop I put in them. The crusty stuff is gross and hurts my skin. I find I'm constantly cleaning around my eyes at work and the skin can get quite red.
Buildermom and SueIL07- welcome to this amazing forum. Hope your chemo goes well.
Summer2016- I too am struggling with weight gain, my stomach region to be specific. I look 5 mth pregnant but I'm really not eating any differently so I'm putting it down to the chemo and steroids. I've decided to try not stress about it when I'm already dealing with the chemo roller coaster,and will hopefully get rid of the baby tummy after chemo completion.
Bareclaws- thanks for the aloe Vera juice suggestion. My mouth was so much worse with my 3rd round and the usual salt and soda rinses weren't controlling it. Will definitely try this on my final round next week.
NotVeryBrave- I agree it is tough not knowing what you're going to feel like tomorrow and how the next round will effect you. It's really important to stress that to everyone around you too including your boss and family. My boss is finally getting it! Don't put too much pressure on yourself and take each day as it comes.
Thinking of each and every one of you amazing strong ladies xx
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gingoleaf - so happy for you to be done with chemo!!! Congrats.
Welcome to the new members. I agree the chemo infusion itself is easy. It's the side effects that are tough. mine have been minimal but annoying, Indigestion, fatigue,soreness and bathroom issues metal mouth and nauseous is the worst for me.
I'm starting taxol next week and I'm scared. Doc said taxol should be easier but now that I'm hearing all the side effects formula ladies I'm scared
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Hi Bareclaw
Where were you able to get the pure Aloe Vera juice, I have looked but seems all of them of a little something added.
Thanks
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Way to go, Gingoleaf12! You did it! So happy for you! Good luck!!!!
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Hopfull2 - My face is a bit puffy too. I didn't think it was noticeable until yesterday when a friend of mine with no filters told me my face was definitely chunky! I then asked my daughter who said "not chunky, but swollen". Ouch!
Jezikah - I'm on the same regimen as you and have not had any issues with rash or peeling.
Three treatments down and my hair is still there and growing in spots too. Looks very strange.
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I just looked and mine does have citric acid and mold inhibitor. Some brands have lots of other stuff in them, like sugar. Mine came from grocery store but it was in the supplement section, "super foods". Anyway, I just rinse with it and it does burn and tingle for a few seconds, but then it makes my mouth feel good, I start the day able to eat acidic fruits but by day's end can't do it. Like strawberries. And oranges. I'm learning that timing is key. Eating most of my calories by lunch time.
I met with oncologist/hematologist today. She isn't my main dr, but the one I picked up when I had the ITP after first chemo. So I really get a "two for one" as they work together on my treatment, which they're still trying to figure out. Current thinking is that Herceptin may have caused the problem, But, I need Herceptin. So after AC is finished,they may give me a tiny dose of Herceptin alone and see what happens. If no relapse, then continue with Herceptin and Taxol. If Herceptin causes my ITP to come roaring back, I'll have to have my spleen removed. In any case, I'm glad to know there's a plan, and options for different scenarios,
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Congrats Ginkoleaf!! I'm 2 weeks PFC and although mentally I know I'm done, I'm still feeling the SEs that come with the last round. I'm hoping in another couple weeks I'll start feeling "normal". Just to be able to taste something is going to make the so happy! Just wondering how long that will take.
Bareclaws--I hope you get through everything without a hitch. You've had such rough ride. You seem very in tuned with your body. I always appreciate your suggestions.
Jezikah--I don't have the red marks but my left hand is puffy and I just started going to physical therapy with a lymphedema specialist to see if she can help with the fluid build up.
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Huge Congrats to you Gingkoleaf12 on completing your treatments!!! Celebrate!!!
Jezikah-----I have now developed a rash on the back of both of my hands....red splotchy and itchy.
Pamela23----Sorry to hear you are having lymphedema issues sure hope PT helps. I was told by my surgeon and nurse that only those who have a large number of lymph nodes removed get any lymphedema. Of course, when I read online that is not what I found. I wish the medical community would recognize what many of us already know...each person's body is different and reacts differently! Keep us posted ---wishing you well!
Bareclaws---May you have smooth sailing from now on....you deserve it!
As for myself I'm not sure anything on my body IS NOT PUFFY at this point
My last treatment is next Friday ---want it over yet dreading the side effects as treatment #3 really knocked me down this time.
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I went to the physical therapist yesterday and she said my swollen hand is not lymphedema since there is no swelling in my arm, so that's good. She gave me exercises, massages to do to get the fluid out and also a compression glove to wear. She wasn't sure about the red, splotchy rash looking part. She didn't think it was infection because I don't have a fever and it's warm but not hot. She did mark it to see if it spreads, but hasn't so far. But there is more peeling of skin and it's not getting better, so I'll probably call MO tomorrow to see if he wants to look at it or if he thinksI should go to a dermatologist or something? It's just really bothering me...
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Gingoleaf12 - Congratulations on finishing this part of the journey. Best of luck for feeling better soon!
Jezikah - Yes, I would call the MO office about your hands. But a dermatologist might be your best bet if it doesn't seem like something they see. I broke out in a rash after my first round and the MO wasn't sure if maybe it was "disseminated Shingles" or not. I ended up seeing the dermatologist and they did a biopsy which showed something called "Grover's" disease. MO's are pretty familiar with chemo induced skin problems and should be able to tell you if that's the problem.
I go for round three today - more anxious this time, I think. Which seems weird. But I'm thankful that I've been feeling almost normal for a week. Sorry to see that go.
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Thank you, Pamela23 and Summer2016. While I often just feel like crawling under the blanket fort and staying there for the duration, I've come to the realization that I'm just too mean and nasty to do that. (The political climate has given me a target for my rage, other than my own personal situation. There are certainly others out there who have it far worse.) And I fight for my kids, who have had way too much to deal with in recent months. For some reason, they think they still need me. It helps me to focus on the now and plan only a little bit for the future. Thinking too far ahead has been counterproductive as things tend to change quickly.
I'm going to run this morning, third time this week. That's huge. I've been such a slug for the last eight weeks and my weight is creeping up with the steroids and crazy eating patterns. Not being able to smell or taste much has made me eat MORE, not less. Nothing satisfies. But I am tapering the steroids so there's hope to get off of those eventually.
Scared witless about Taxol coming up and the possible neuropathy SE. I should chill, but. Running. I would be devastated if that became impossible. (I'm a barefoot runner.) Also fingers. I supplement my income (and keep my brain working) with fiber/yarn creations. Need. My. Fingers. Those are the things left that make me happy, make me keep going.
Jezikah, worried about your hand. Keep us posted on that.
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honeybeaw. Trader joes has aloe Vera juice
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I had my 1st Taxol of 4 yesterday. No issues during the infusion. It took 5.5 hours. It was different than AC. They gave me Tylenol and Pepcid 1st then Benedryl, steroid and anti-nausea meds. Then 3 hour very slow gravity drip. So far I have had no SE's other than food having very little or no flavor. We will see what the next few days bring. I actually feel better at this point than I did with AC. Not so foggy.
I spoke with my MO about neuropathy and he said to let him know of the 1st signs of it and he will make the necessary adjustments. I told him my job requires that I use a mouse for 12 hours and need my hands to write logs. I believe he will make sure that it will not become debilitating or permanent. I will stop treatment before I jeopardize my job and he knows that.
Keep on going girls. You got this!
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Popping over again from Nov...... Gingkoleaf12 I also get the bumpy texture on the roof of my mouth after taxotere...it also lasted about 4-5 days, as well as my tongue felt "fuzzy" and my tastebuds go....they are just starting to come back now and its been 13 days since my treatment. I"m going to try sucking on ice chips during my next taxotere...some women in my group say it helps with the taste buds.
I also had very sore, tender finger nails....I"m so afraid I'm going to lose the nails ugh! I did the dark nail polish the day before chemo, and kept it on for a few days, then took it off and did clear hardner, adding a lay each day for a couple days....this time I am going to keep the dark polish on after chemo for the whole time....I had no issues with my toe nails and I kept the polish on.
I know it sounds strange, but I"ve heard the nail polish thing a few times now from different people. (including someone on BCO who said the actual Taxotere company gave her nail polish in a kit from her MO) LOL
I slather my hands and feet with lotion...you can get that hand and foot issue....(peeling, drying skin) I want to prevent that also...I just ordered the lotion gloves and booties to wear over night.
Becky
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Would someone please point to a study or any science that supports dark nail polish preventing nail problems? Until then, I'm of the opinion that it just camouflages the SE of nails turning dark. I could be wrong. Please educate me.
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Hello, December 2016 Ladies
I've got my 4/4 AC infusions today. Will be switching to DD Taxol in 2 weeks. I'm trying to anticipate how I'm going to feel on Taxol. Yes, I know that everyone reacts differently... however... you know how our imaginations get the best of the best of us.
I have 2-weeks of important meetings at work just as I'm making the AC to Taxol switch. The timing couldn't be worse. (Well, actually, it probably could.) To exacerbate the situation, I need to travel out of state for these meetings. I'm hoping that I don't have to play the chemo-card and bow out of meetings that I'm scheduled to lead.
DD Taxol ladies: please keep posting about your status and SE's. More information = less anxiety.
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Bearclaws, I believe it has to do with the UV rays....I"m not sure, but I figured why not try it? can't hurt and my nails look pretty LOL my nails have not turned black at all, so I"m not covering anything up (yet)
I will try to find some more information about it if I can :-)
Becky
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Midwest_Laura - I have had my first DD taxol. I had a pretty rough time with it, but I also had the stomach virus so that didn't help. I go next Wednesday for Round 2, so I'm hoping to have a better idea of how I will react then. Everyone had told me that Taxol would be easier than A/C, so here's hoping!
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