Really scared
hello I have to start AC chemo in a few weeks. I’m so scared by the reputation it has. I’m terrified of nausea as I’m emetephobic. I’m just finishing my taxol , carboplatinum 12 weeks. I’m hoping there are some positive stories .
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Hello again, @luvzee! We are sorry're having a hard time… It’s completely normal to feel scared and worried before starting chemo, and many people here have felt the same. We encourage you to join the Starting Chemo August 2025 Support thread, where you can connect with others beginning chemo at the same time. It can really help to share fears and tips with people who truly understand.
You might also find it helpful to check out our Tips for Getting Through AC Chemo thread!
Please, come back to let us know how you're doing. We're here for you!
The Mods
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Emesis prevention has come a long, long way in the past 20 years. Your chemo cocktail will likely include a steroid or other drug to ameliorate nausea and prevent vomiting. Emetrol, flat tepid ginger ale (stir it with a fork) or cola syrup are OTC natural remedies that can work well. Ask if you can get a prescription for Zofran or its generic version.
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Hi Luvzee, I did AC many years ago & was also very, very scared going into it. Everyone is different, of course, but I didn't find it to be that bad. I just felt 'off' (like having a mild case of the flu); but was able to work full-time & do the things I needed/wanted to do. My advice would be to take the anti-nausea drugs EXACTLY as prescribed (and report any breakthrough nausea right away, don't try to tough it out), stay very hydrated, get some exercise (I walked & walked & walked), and keep up at least a semi-normal schedule if you can (which is good for your mental health). Between the stress & the steroids, I had a horrible time sleeping, so I took a prescription sleeping pill during that time. It's hard stuff, but you can get through it and come out being really, really okay. 💓
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@luvzee I can't say it better than @ruthbru did! I took an anxiety pill to help with sleep. The chemo nurses will give you all kinds of tips too. AC sucks but it's doable. Definitely check out one of the monthly chemo threads. I can also recommend the in treatment virtual support groups. Good luck!
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thanks for all the tips , much appreciated. I’m still scared as it sounds bad. Not sure I can do it.
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Think of AC as working FOR you against the real enemy, cancer. You can get through this because you want to give yourself the best chance to never, ever, ever have to go through cancer treatments again.
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