starting chemo in July

[My_2_boys]

Hiya

Sorry to hear that you are feeling so poorly Shapb -- like you I am suffering with aches and pains and had my first tax last Tuesday -- am taking nurofen express and co-codomol to give me some respite! When I wake up in the morning I feel about 100 years old!! I look back on the days of FEC chemo with a smile as I really didn't suffer at all but I know that I was lucky.... Mentally this has been the worst as well but like you say only two more to go and then we are finished!!!

Angel good idea about mentioning it to the ONC - will go in with my lists of SE's of TAX and hopefully Tax 2 and 3 will be a lot easier -- would love my tastebuds to come back to.

Hope everyone else has enjoyed the sun -- and love to all xx

[Guest user]

ty anne and all , had bath earlier gonna phone tom for pain relief, me Also onky 2 to go x

[Guest user]

Hi Shapb

It would seem that the joint pains are common for this chemo drug. I was told to just keep taking ibrufen or paracetomol. I am going to ask for stronger ones when I see on ONC on Tuesday. My finger tips are a little numb now so picking things up or doing up buttons is a problem.

I am not looking forward to Friday at all but I only have two left now so will grit my teeth and get through it.

A warm bath might help you, I also slept with a pillow between my knees to relieve some of the pain.

Hope it is ok for you and eases soon

Anne x

[lisha]

P.s have you noticed how quiet us July ladies are compared to all the other threads lol xx

[lisha]

Shapb ,so sorry you have had such a miserable weekend . Im on 6 lots of EC so cant really help but im sure someone will be along soon to help .Lots of July ladies are on TAX. I know you are all suffering and i feel really sorry for you but in a way i wish i was on TAX too i think its supposed to be the best and being triple neg i would like to throw everything at it i can.I know thats no consulation when you are all suffering and i hope someone can help soon.
Also if it helps my 4th EC was my worst ever too to the point where i didnt want to go back again . I have my 5th on thur if my bloods hold up and i am really not looking forward to it all all but as we all know needs must!!In saying that im going to be gutted if its cancelled .
Anne pleased to hear you are on the up and i hope you get your chemo on fri too . We can suffer together lol.At least that will be another one down.I too had my flu jab yesterday and they told me i might have to have another one when chemo is finished as the chemo will make it less effective.Not sure if you got told that too? Last night i began to wish i hadnt bothered ,it was the first flu jab i have ever had and i felt really hot achey and tired. I checked my temp and usually it is 35.8 but it went to 36.1. Ok no problem but within half an hour it was 37.1 and rising every 5 min.Luckily it eventually settled down and started to drop a little. I know its not high but for my body temp it is.
Well for anyone getting zapped this week good luck with bloods and SE and for all you poor girls in hospital may you be home with your loved ones very soon and Shapb hope some help comes along soon .
Take care all .Love Sharon xx

[Guest user]

well ive had the worst weekend since diagnosed wish was back on fec ! had firsr tax last thurs and have been in constant pain all weekend esp my feet ! can anyone help with the pain ! is this common ? x

[Guest user]

Hi All

Almost one week on since I came home from hospital and I am feeling a lot better than I was. I worked part time Tuesday and Wednesday and back to full time Thursday and Friday. My GP did a blood count on Tuesday which was ok and wants to do another one on Wednesday this coming week. I see the ONC on Tuesday morning so hopefully all will be ok and I can have next Tex on Friday. Am hoping that he can give me some stronger pain killers for the joint aches and pains and possibly the injections to help boost my immune system.

I had the flu jab yesterday, all ok except for feeling really tired all day. Had a nice warm bath this morning and am feeling a lot better. Off out to lunch now with my friend who is just ahead of me in treatment.

Hope everyone else is feeling good

Anne x

[Guest user]

hi all , day 3 from first tax must say last 2 days felt ok
wasnt sick like i was on fec so big bonus although today feel a bit crap bit of sore head and mouth tastin yuck
!!! so relaxin in bed today , not nice weather in scotland today we have had our 3 days heatwave so beds a good place !!!

goodluck to all this week take care x

[squirrel45]

Still alive but still an in patient! My neuts have multiplied overnight to a very respectable 2 just the temp which shot up just after they mentioned the possibility of home. So I am stuck until Mon/Tues on IV antibiotics. I suppose it's the best place but I am missing my girls and it's thrown life into a bit of chaos as my mum and dad not local. Thanks Sharon for your post , FEC seems not so bad now! Now then I must attend to this lentil cottage pie......good job I have my own room! Xx

[My_2_boys]

Hi all,

Am day 3 post tax and my mouth is complete yuck -- have Drs appointment this afternoon to see if I can get something for it. Feel a little achey today so just taking it easy. Was pleased that I got some sleep last night but am still so tired so have just sat on the sofa after taking the boys to school today......

Have been keeping an eye on my temp and seems to be holding up OK at the moment -- so fingers crossed it will keep this way.

Feel and look very old today -- am hoping tomorrow is a better day..

Love to everyone xxx

[supertrouper]

Hi Queenie

Yes I am okay today thanks - I think I am out off the "dark zone" and back into the light. I bet it is lovely down in Devon. My brother lives in Dorset - both places are lovely.

[Guest user]

hi super am waiting for milaw and am going for a walk down town it`s very misty in devon.day 9 post 4 fec.
hope you are ok
queenie

[supertrouper]

Oh dear, all these girls being admitted to hospital! I wonder if the warm weather has had anything to do with it?

I had a close call on Monday and not had a good week. I am now ten days post tax and beginning to feel a bit more normal.

Hope everyone gets a chance to feel the sunshine on their faces today.

[Guest user]

morning ladies.hope you are all well.
silver hope it all went well yesterday and chemo went ahead.
hope all you ladies having tax are out of hospital and getting better.does anybody suffer from flushes at night.am 46 so i surpose it could be the start of the menopose??will speak to onc next time i see him.do find am cold even though if it is hot outside.must be somthing to do with the blood.well ladies we only have 2 more chemo to go YIPEE
we have come so far nearing the end
queenie xxxxx

[Slendablenda]

And I'm going to make it No4!
Yesterday evening my OH also encouraged me to take my temp. 37.4 then 37.6 an hour later 38. Rang the hosp. They said come in straight away so that's where I was overnight.
I have to say they were marvellous. I had a spotless private room with ensuite bathroom. They checked everything, chest Xray, ECG, urine, bloods, sputum,temp, sats, prodded, poked, looked down my throat, felt my nodes.Gave me IV anti-biotics
There was no boob unturned!
Then when the Consultant came round this morning he said I was not neutropenic (Phew). The raised temp was due to the cold I've got.
Recommended Paracetamol.
I'm home now, another blood test tomorrow,hopefully chemo on Monday, should have been today.
Seems to have hit many of us quite hard this week.
I hope everyone feels better soon.

[lisha]

Oh Andrea you are so not having any luck at the moment.Its awful when you have to go in as you know they are very insistent on you staying .I have been naughty a few times and gone to docs in fear of being admitted.
Well done OH for taking you in and insisting on it. Your poor neuts have really took a dive i hope they are on their way up soon.Take care and let yourself be fussed over. It is so warm at the mo too to be in hospital and to have to walk the full length of that hospital car park (we usually end up parking in car park 3 miles away)no wonder you were knackered !!
Hope all you girls who have been admitted recover soon big hugs for you all and may everyones SE be few.
I go for no 5 chemo next thur dreading it already yet hope it doesnt get cancelled due to low neuts(as they were only 1.8 last time)just want them over with now .
Take care all we havent got too long to go now .Love Sharon xx

[squirrel45]

Well I am going to make it 3 of us now who have been admitted after Tax. Felt grotty still today and despite it being so hot outside felt chilly. OH insisted on me taking my temp which was slightly raised. One hour later still up a fraction. Rang the unit and they asked me to go in. No parking anywhere and a long hike to get in. I was knackered! Temp was normal when I got there but my neuts were 0.2. Another spot check of my temp and it was 38 so straight in for IV antibiotics and a big bag of fluid. So big hug to my OH coz I gave him a hard time for fussing. Just hope I am not in for too long! Come on u neuts, show yourselves! X

[Guest user]

well no4 tom but 1st tax , bit wary of new side effects and was told need to give myself a injection on frid but not sure if i can do it myself mite need nurse 😞 so hopefully be ok as have been with fec but hey ho only 2 more after tom !! the end of this is in site for us allxx

good luck all xx

[supertrouper]

Hi Queenie - hope you are okay now? I had the same problem with constipation - I tried Ducolax but that didn't help. I ended up ringing my Oncology unit and spoke to one of the nurses there. She said it sounded "impacted" and got me a prescription for Movical. I had to take 4 sachets dissolved in one pint of water - twice a day for three days. I only took one lot. I don't want to be graphic but I can only compare it to childbirth!

Anyway - feel tons better now and going to make sure I don't get like that again!

[Guest user]

Queenie try fresh orange loads of it helps me hope it works what you doing xxx

[Guest user]

Hello, went to the hospital today bloods are ok so we going ahead with chemo tomorrow! don't feel as bad tonight so hopefully on the up until tomorrow after chemo ho the joys of this. The weather has been lovley up here i went out this afternoon to get the washing in and the heat just hit me felt like i was abroad...... wish i was instead of being here and going though this. Well someone has to do it...

Hope you are all ok and se are non take care x

[squirrel45]

Aggh Slendablenda, so sorry your neuts are low! Mine bounced up to an impressive 4 after a week's rest which I was pleased about before starting this Tax. Its so frustrating tho when u can see an end in sight.
Supertrouper, sounds like u had a lucky escape. Its grim this stuff. My tongue and mouth sore and food just tastes rubbish. My energy levels at an all time low. I have even been having a nap after lunch which I have never done. Angel, I am glad that you are OK and the hospital got you back on your feet even if they are red and sore!
Hope things get moving Queenie ! I know my consultant loves Moviecol which she got me to take the day before chemo. I had to dissolve it in rasp/apple juice as I found it disgusting but a few sachets and lactulose plus of course the high fibre multiple fruit/veg and I was away. Best wishes to all, and good luck to those getting dosed this week !

[My_2_boys]

Hi everyone,

Haven't had much chance to post lately but have kept up with everyone's stories....

Well had 1st TAX yesterday and was really worried and nervous -- I think it was because I felt like I was back to the beginning again not knowing how I would be whereas with FEC after the first one I knew when my good and bad days would be... After no sleep for 2 nights due to the steriods I must admit I am a lot more tearful today but so far holding up quite good (although I know that it is really early days!!) The veins are holding up but it is getting more difficult to get blood for the pre-chemo blood test and is not helped but the fact they can only use the one arm!! Hey ho the joys eh!

Eyelashes and eyebrows are holding on! and I had to shave my legs for the first time last week so that hair seems to be growing back OK! Am using the cold cap still and everything although hair is thinning the nurse did mention if I lost anymore on the top I should think about stopping -- this one comment has made more tears fall the past day than anything -- Has anyone else had to stop the cold cap if they have started because of how thin their hair got?

Anyway enough of that and I am enjoying the sunshine.

Love, hugs and little side effects to all.....

xxxx

[Guest user]

moning ladies/hope all you taxers are ok.day 7 post 4 fec feel ok.need to sort out this constipation.am trying lactulose and extra strong senokot god i hope tha does the trick,have no pains in stomac just don`t want to go,any tips .eat prunes and bran for breakfast so should be able to go.have a runny nose when i eat (no nasel hair).if no joy on with senocot will ring doc tomorrow.i drink plenty of water and know it`s part off the chemo.silver hope you are ok as it seem`s it`s just you and me on fec only.my blood was low on the monday but took some more on the wednesday it was fine chemo went ahead ,hope yours goes ahead tomorrow.
queenie xx

[supertrouper]

Hi Anne

I am on day 7 post Tax number one and had to go to hospital yesterday morning as my temperature went through the roof. I expected to be kept in but was delighted when they let me home after giving me IV antibiotics and full blood tests.

My tongue is also white but I am rinsing my mouth out with Diflam and it doesn't seem too sore today. Absolutely no energy! and food holds no pleasure at all. My feet are red and sore - are yours still? I have skin peeling off them and am keeping them moisturised in bed and wearing little socks. Good job we have a spare bedroom as I look a right sight at the moment.

Glad to hear you are feeling better - I see my Onc on the 6th and next Tax is on the 12th. I already have the injection on the day after chemo - so not sure what else can be done to help with the side effects apart from more pain killers and iv drip of alcohol.

Its not good on the Oncology wards is it! Couldn't wait to get home when I was admitted.

Sending good wishes and lots of sunshine to everyone this week. Make the most of it because like everything - this too will pass. xx

[Guest user]

Hi Everyone

Just managed to catch up with all the posts since last week. I spent a long week-end in Southampton General after developing an infection, having low blood counts and side effects from first T chemo the Friday before.

My tounge was totally white and shiny, my throat was like the bottom of a budgies cage, my feet were red and very sore and I had no energy whatsoever. The upside was I lost the 8kg which I had put on since chemo started in July, but that was in one week.

The hospital were brilliant and by Sunday I was starting to feel normal again. My mouth is still a little sore and eating textured food still a problem. But at least I am eating again.

I see the ONC on the 4th ready for next session on 7th, by then he will have worked out whether I need to go on to the injections.

Feeling so much better now. Whilst in the hospital I saw so many others who are suffering from other types of cancer, some who can not have 'successful' treatment and thought myself lucky that the treatment for BC has a high success rate.

All the best

Anne xx

[Slendablenda]

Thanks Super,
It'll be 7 days on Monday. Usually I have a flush,dressing change and blood test on Tuesday and chemo on Thursday.

[supertrouper]

Slendablenda - picc flush and re-dressing needs to be done every 7 days as the statlock and blue hub thing are only guaranteed for 7 days. Sorry to hear that you have been delayed with your next chemo but make the most of your extended good days and get out into the sunshine!

[Slendablenda]

Thanks jill xx,
My arm is okay. Had PICC flush and re-dressing this morning. It'll have to last a bit longer this time.All my appointments will need to be changed.Fed up about it, but it makes sense. No point taking on more poisons while you've got something extra to contend with.

[Guest user]

Hi Slendablenda
Thanks for your reply will give them a call in morning. Sorry to hear you not well and have to have yours put back : ( hope you get better xx will let you know how it turns out. I am really tired too so think me bloods might be down too : ( my arm is sore too and tight how is yours?

[Slendablenda]

Hello silverjill
I had my blood test this morning in readiness for my next chemo on Thursday.I also have a cold and sore throat, had taken my temp. last night, only slightly up so didn't panic.
Hosp phoned me this afternoon to say blood count is low, chemo postponed till Monday. Have to have a further blood test on Friday though to check that levels have improved, otherwise chemo could be delayed further. BUMMER.
I think you should contact your chemo unit. Let us know how you get on.

[Guest user]

Good afternoon lady's went to the hospital yesterday re cold spots on top of head and numbness at back of neck and right side of face, onc said he thinks i am a new side affect. so just thought i would let you all know i have to keep an eye on it and if it gets worse i have to go for scan !!!
Hope to have FEC 4 thursday, not sure if i will be allowed as have cold and sore throat! what do you think please advise
Will i be allowed ?

[Slendablenda]

Hello
I have Filagrastin injections from day 3 to day 10. The District Nurse came and did the first 2 and I asked her to show me how to do it.
After that I've done it myself. Was a bit anxious at first, but it only
takes a moment. You find a bit of flesh(not difficult for me!) in your tummy area, pinch it and poke it in.
No-one told me beforehand that they should be done about the same time daily. I do mine about 8 a.m. do it doesn't muck up my day.
I could have had the Nurse every day. I think it varies in different areas.
Hi squirrel. Yes, I've been having a few extra surprises with my shopping too = broccoli, toothpaste, milk. !!!

[squirrel45]

Hi everyone, and welcome Veronique, I am day 6 post first Tax too. I think you sound amazing and positive which helps you get through this! I am feeling bit better today and forced myself to do some housework as I am better moving about. I am so hoping that each day will get better now. I ordered some supermarket shopping off the net yesterday in my low and achey mood and it was interesting what arrived today! Still, don't think we will run out of milk or mushrooms EVER ......!
Shapb, I have the injections day 5-9 to boost the white cells as the Tax hammers them. I do them myself and its painless, but if you need them I am sure there is help for you - not everyone is happy to do them themselves. Finding that Ibuprofen better than Paracetamol at helping with the aches.
Queenie I got a rash after FEC for around 3 days - just on my face and neck. Everyone thought I looked really well as normally I am drip white !

[Guest user]

morning ladies.day 6 post 4.as i`am only having fec.just starting my low period .were allsorts start to happen??????has anybody had a rash?sleeping tips would be good.have deen given temazepam by doc to help but they are addictivie so only try a take them once a week,need a least one good nights sleep!!!hope you all have a good day and the s/e are small
queenie xxxx

[Guest user]

thanks ive never had injections and not been told so maybe not gettin them , hope not dont think
i could inject myself ...

[Guest user]

Hi Shapb,

I was given Neulasta to inject 24 hours after chemo. It's to improve your neutrophil count week 2 after chemo (when you're possibly at your lowest blood count). You can read about it here http://www.neulasta.com

I know there are other types of injections so I'll leave others to comment on those, but I've been given Neulasta throughout chemo (I've had 3 FEC and 1 Docetaxel so far). I didn't know about it ahead of time either.. but it was explained during my first chemo when they gave me drugs/ supplies to take home.

Best of luck for Thursday
Jenna

[Slendablenda]

Hi Veronique
I asked the Macmillan lady at the Breast cancer unit at the hospital when I went for my chemotherapy or you could ask your Breast Cancer Nurse.

[Guest user]

hi all
been readin a lot of people
on tax takin injections ? does everyone need these as i start tax on thurs and not been told about any injections ????

[Guest user]

Hi slendaBlenda, thank you for welcoming me on here. I haven't considered counselling but am learning to do a little more for myself. I think as women generally we're all too used to looking after others and neglecting ourselves....... How did you find your counsellor?

Just reading a lot of the stories on here has given me huge support already, I'm feeling better already just knowing there are people who really understand
X

[Slendablenda]

Welcome Veronique, well done for posting. I hope you'll feel a lot of support on here. We've all got individual challenges but we've also all got one thing in common so understand how others feel from time to time
and it does fluctuate doesn't it. It's good to know that other people experience similar SE's. Have you considered counselling as you can't really discuss how you feel with your OH? I had my first session last week, No 2 tomorrow.

[Guest user]

Hi everyone, do you mind if I join in this thread? Have been reading posts for a while but never joined in. Had r mx in June 11, started chemo in July 3xFEC and 3xT. Am day 6 post first Tax and have struggled with SEs but have to say this forum has been invaluable as far as info is concerned and eased my worries. Thank you everyone. My OH had a car accident 2 years ago and has been left with a brain injury so I can't share some of my worries,fears with him as his emotions have been left all over the place. With 2 kids, 14 & 16 who are amazing I always try to put a brave front on. Reading your posts makes me realise I'm not going mad and worrying unnecessarily but also inspired me to open up and make some new friends who understand exactly what is happening.
Xx

[squirrel45]

The Tax truck has pulled in and the driver having a leisurely cooked breakfast. OMG, its been a long long time since I felt this crap! I am actually missing the FEC !!! Managed my injection this morning and heartened to see it also causes muscle aches ! Its taking me all my time to get upright which is so not like me. Hoping it lifts soon.Shapb, stock up on the Paracetamol !

[Slendablenda]

Good luck on Thurs Shapb, I'll be having my TAX 3 on Thurs pm.
The side effects have been unpleasant for me - more tiredness, aching in lots of places, really sore feet and hands from Day 4 to 10 and fatigue, but no nausea/sickness and no constipation either.
Swings and roundabouts.....

[Guest user]

hi all its great readin all ur posts ! im goin on to 1st tax on thurs and a bit scared , have had 3 fec and was gettin used to my routine , now its gonna change
... boo ... hope not sick cause been really sick
for last 3 fecs ! anti sick pills dont work for me !
good luck all this week 🙂

[Guest user]

afternoon all.day 4 post 4 constipated for three days.took lactulose and senekot seem to do the trick,what with prunes and bran for breakfast and drinking all this fluid you think all would be ok????
supertrouper.hope you feel ok soon sleep still a problem but try to take drugs only once a week so at least get one good night sleep.
silver hope you are ok.
jenna i`am a red girl but also hav`nt touched a drink since started treatment hope it comes back.
take care all and may the s/e are not to bad
queenie xxx

[squirrel45]

O Supertrouper sounds grim, hope the pains settle and you can get rest! Love your lucky jar idea too ! Lisha hope you picking up again and I am imagining you in your hats and smiling too ! Queenie, my consultant tried me on Movicol which worked but tasted so foul! I then tried Lactulose which tastes very sweet but lets say things did get moving! I did manage to sleep last night aided by a nice cold lager which helped the curry go down. My face less itchy. Feeling a bit achey and lacking in va va voom. Trying not to give in to a snooze in the hope I can sleep again tonight...Think Eddie and his truck pulling in !!

[supertrouper]

Well, here I am at 2:12 in the morning - and can't sleep. Aching legs and back had me sending OH to chemist to see what I could have to help as the paracetamol weren't hitting the spot. He came back with paramol (paracetamol + dihydrocodeine) which has a warning on the box to say it can cause addiction and it is for three days use only. I took two of these at 8pm and then slept from 9:30 to 12:30 - just taken two more and will go off to the spare room and try for some more sleep in a bit. I am trying not to disturb OH as he needs his sleep too.

So much for the chilled cans of cold lager - first one tasted like paint stripper so I am now drinking Mackeson. (very small can!)

[Guest user]

Hi All,
I got a real boost this week. Met up with a woman who was in the same ward as me for our mastectomies, she had had her chemo prior to her surgery then had to 'look forward' to radiotherapy afterwards. HOWEVER - she's now finished her treatment, she looks fantastic, feels great, hair growing back in - altogether amazing. I'm not saying that she hasn't got a few problems to sort out as she has a bit of cording in her arm which remains troublesome but in the greater scheme of things life is pretty damm good for her and I'm glad.
I just thought that this cheery note might make us all feel better and look to the future with hope.
Hope you are all well this week and s/e not too bad.

Carol x

[Guest user]

Oh you paint such a vivid picture Supertrouper, the sound of a truck of cold lager is appealing! I'm usually a chilled crisp white wine kind of girl but I haven't had a drop since starting chemo. Not fancied it at all.

Your lucky jars sound lovely, what a thoughtful gift.

And I'm glad to hear you're surviving following your first tax, I know you were a little worried. If it helps I'm glad to report following my first one (two weeks ago today) my joints have recovered and I'm feeling 'normal' for end of week two. Fingers (that aren't too sore) crossed you bounce back quickly too.

Jenna