More chemo questions (???) if you will.... - Lymphomas Message Board

singer78 · 06-05-2007, 07:46 AM

Hi. I'm feeling a little better today, as the 4th day does not seem so intense after chemo. I was just wondering if that seems to be the pattern for most chemo patients---that "knock-down-drag-out" feeling, right immediately following chemo.?.
Ails, I know you said I'd be "up & about" in a few days...which I'm so hopeful that's the case. I'm trying to figure out a pattern here--if there is one.
I go to my Oncologist Thursday, so I'll be sure to write all my questions down. The last time I saw him, I was groggy from surgery & forgot everything I wanted to ask.
I'm also wondering about the mouth problems, and do they stay with you throughout chemo?--or come & go, too? I guess what I'm wondering, is--Does your body ever "accept" the chemo more readily, as time wears on...therefore, making it a little easier on your system? Again...probably everyone is different, and I'm seeking hope that this is going to become easier, than the last few days. I'm still a bit of a wimp---but, really--I haven't felt this bad, since I don't know when.... I keep my sights set on becoming well, though--and better! My husband reiterated to me last night, about how I've not felt well for a couple of years, and "do you want to stay like that???" NO! I want to enjoy life again and not have symptom after symptom. I have to hang on to the "curable" rate, too....I'm so lucky in that respect.
I'll probably feel better after my laxative takes affect.....
Being "backed-up" can certainly ruin your day !!

---thanks---S.

pinkmada · 06-05-2007, 08:23 AM

hey, I was freaking out a while back on thinking that your body gets used to the chemo etc but I was assured my many different doctors that it doesn't so dont worry. Everyone reacts differently to the chemo, generally i'm tired and nausous for a couple of days after but that doesnt stop me going to classes and working. I don't think you'll see a pattern until after a few sessions. it might help to make a chemo diary just listing the side effects and how youre generally feeling. Could be a great help to your doctor too.

I just finished my treatment about an hour ago so I'm gonna go for a nap soon.
xx

singer78 · 06-05-2007, 08:53 AM

Mada,
You're winding up treatment, right? How exciting! I'm counting the days, till I can say "one more..."
I think you have a lot of spunk. I did...but somewhere along the line, things started going awry, and the cold reality of it all knocked me for a loop!
May I ask...did you have surgery of any kind? I had a node (collarbone) taken out in early May, and my shoulder has really not been 'right' since. I seem to have some complications from that surgery going on, which I LIVE on painkillers. I can tell when they wear off---but, I'm worried about taking too many med's.
Also, I don't think I read anywhere, if you had a port put in.. did you? I'm assuming they pretty much do that "across the board" these days. It does seem to make it more convenient, all the way around.
I certainly admire you getting on with your life. That's why I'm posting like I am---I've been a little "down" for quite awhile, here, and I'm hoping to snap out of it...at least a little.
Thanx....

pinkmada · 06-06-2007, 12:56 PM

hey, i had a biopsy of a node under my right arm in january and i think it took til about april to heal and i wasnt in any pain. it did take ages and i was convinced it got infected but it didnt.

I never had a port put in, i was never asked and i think i would've refused if i had been asked. i don't like things like that but i don't mind needles so it's not so bad.
Thanks, i don't think i would've coped the last few months without this board. It's one thing having your friends and family around but none of them will know how your feeling and if things get really on top of you then you have to go and see your doctor, even if it's just to talk to someone neutral about everything. Your mental health is just as important as your physical one! But it's completely normal to have up and down days.
Take care
x