Hi Misskim108,
I am quite new to chemo as well - I am in my second 3-week cycle. On day one of cycle I have Cisplatin, Epirubicin and Fluorouracil. The next day is a write-off with extreme nausea, can't keep water down, can't swallow the anti-nausea tablets. Thankfully they've also given me Stemetil suppositories which help. The next two days nausea gradually less bad and able to start eating. I lose a couple of kilos in this first week. Along with the nausea is extreme tiredness.
On the second and third weeks of chemo I have Fluorouracil 24/7 via porta-cath and only get slight nausea occasionally. These weeks I spend trying to regain the weight I lost! I am still working full time, mostly in the office but also have the option of working from home on the bad chemo days if I want.
My hair started to fall out about week 4 and when it got too straggly and thin I shaved it all off - felt much better gone.
Mouth ulcers started this week, mostly on my lips. Bicarb soda mouthwash and constant lip balm is helping heal these.
But I understand everyone experience with chemo is different and also depends on what chemo you are on.
Chemo is the only option for me (inoperable, incurable oesophageal cancer, spread to liver). I was on liquids only before starting treatment. I am now able to eat better each day, so I thnik the chemo must have already shrunk the tumor. For that I am more than willing to put up with one horrendous day per cycle!
All the best and good luck!
kathyhtak
