I need to have an idea of what sort of precautions I will need to take with everyday life after I start chemo I have been diagnosed with invasive lobular cancer in my right breast , next week I am having a wire inserted so they know where it is so after chemo they will know where to take it out I have been told I will lose the nipple area . My lymph nodes will have to go as well .
Not had a date for the start of the treatment yet , so need to know should I clean the house top to bottom and disinfect everything? If so what to use . Can I carry on as normal cooking etc if I feel Okay how long does it take for my immune system to start to recover from being zapped?
Hello jhanchi
Welcome to the forums, you’ve come to the right place for support as the users of this site have a wealth of experience and knowledge between them.
I have put a link to our BCC publication on chemotherapy which may help you.
www2.breastcancercare.org.uk/publications/treatment-side-effects/chemotherapy-breast-cancer-bcc17
If you would like to talk to someone in confidence you may like to phone our helpline where you can talk to a member of staff. The free phone number is 0808 800 6000 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9.00 to 5.00 and Saturday 10.00 to 2.00.
Best wishes
June, moderator
Hi jhanchi
Whilst it would be wise to get your home as clean as possible before starting chemo (although I’m sure it is spotless) because you will have days when you won’t feel up to doing much. But don’t go mad. Imagine you are preparing for a new baby in the house. You will be given advice by the chemo nurse when you have your pre-chemo appointment. You will need a good quality (but not too expensive) thermometer, as you will need to keep an eye on your temperature - especially in low immunity days. One suggestion is to keep a small basket/bag/container with a handle to put necessary things in. Hand gel, chewing gum, thermometer, tissues, that type of thing.
Follow this link:
forum.breastcancercare.org.uk/t5/Chemotherapy/Top-tips-to-help-get-you-through-Chemotherapy/m-p/304687#U304687
and scroll down to Biddleybee’s post she has copied an earlier ‘chemotherapy tips’ post that I used for reference. I might be a good idea to copy and paste it so you can print it out and keep handy.
When you find out which regime you are having, probably FEC-T, you will find out what days are low immunity days. Some hospitals provide injections (Filgastrim or Neulasta) that you can use at home on the days specified. These will help your body to produce white cells (neutrophils) and boost your immunity. Apart from that, just take sensible precautions during low immunity days, and avoid anyone you know has a cold or other infection. Again, use the new born baby as an example.
You can carry on as normal as far as housework/cooking is concerned AS LONG AS YOU FEEL UP TO IT. Accept offers of help, or even ask for help if you’re not feeling too good on any day. There are certain foods you will need to avoid. The best diet is a pregnancy diet, which avoids foods such as soft cheeses, shellfish, raw eggs and even undercooked eggs.
You will also have a blood test a couple of days before your next cycle is due, to ensure your bloods have gone back to a good level.
Sending hugs and best wishes.
poemsgalore xx
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