My treatment plan includes 12 weeks of paclitaxel and herceptin after surgery, with herceptin continuing for a full year. I am only willing to try this treatment if I can ice my hands and feet throughout every paclitaxel infusion. I’ve purchased ice gloves and boots, but am worried that the team will try to deliver paclitaxel through a hand cannula, directly damaging my hands and preventing icing.
How do I ensure I can get a port (preferred) or PICC line for chemotherapy, without delaying the start of treatment? Alternatively, can they cannula into my arm instead of my hand, and will the ice mitts still work in this case? What are the restrictions on swimming, running, climbing and weightlifting for each option?
I’m 39 with good veins (and want to keep it that way!) I’m having a double mastectomy with left sentinel lymph node biopsy, so I guess that brings me down to only one arm for interventions anyway? I need blood tests at least yearly for the rest of my life due to other medication I’m on.