Whole Brain Radiation side effects 2 weeks out

[cammfam4]

It has been two weeks since having Whole Brain Radiation and I am wondering if I will still lose my hair as the Dr. says I will. So far it just started thinning out a little today. I am hoping I dodged that bullet! I am also finding I have no appetite and my taste buds are way off. Can anyone tell me if this is normal? I know the Memantine Im taking has side effects too. Just want to feel normal again

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer]

Sorry to tell you that the hair will probably begin to fall out in chunks today or tomorrow. Its one of those things that's slow to start then picks up fast.

Report the apetite loss to your dr. There are appetite stimulants they can prescribe. This, too, is a normal side effect of WBR. My mom had problems with certain smells and foods after WBR but she would never turn down a Girl Scout Thin Mint. Right now getting calories in is more important than how well the diet is balanced. There's plenty of time when the WBR side effects wear off to eat better. I've no clue how long that might take though as my mom had comorbidities that prohibited chemo and she was gone in less than 5 months.

Ps: this is a copy and paste of the answer I left on that other site.

[cammfam4 in reply to Denzie]

Thanks, I like to post on both sites to get the most responses sorry for the loss of your mom.

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer in reply to cammfam4]

You've smart taste in websites. I like that this one is not commercial. Its truly patient cantered not profit centered.

[ronfong]

Joan thought she dodged the bullet too until week three kicked in and then it was all gone within ten days except for a tuft line at the back where the beams didn't go. Weight loss due to loss of appetite is also expected and getting calories and exercise is important for good outcomes. Joan's head started getting fuzzy five months out. It's been six months now and there a coat of down. Probably a few more months until its hair. Blessings on your recovery

[cammfam4 in reply to ronfong]

Thank you!

[Slee4405]

My mom lost her hair also and it didn't come back but she gained years of additional time. It was worth the trade off. Sending prayers and blessings your way.

[cammfam4 in reply to Slee4405]

Thank you!