Couldn't attach a photo to my reply to Suzanne 333 (? can't tag you, sorry!) who posted about the cold cap. This is what it looks like. Consists of a brain-like contraption underneath, which is the part that freezes & then the 'cap' or hat part goes over the top & holds it in place, by use of straps which tighten in various degrees.
Happy to answer any Q's about it, or the process to anyone who doesn't know about it. I thought it worked great, & kept my hair, albeit it thinned a little.
Sarah
Hi Sarah.
Thank you for the reply and the photo. I think I will try it. I'm glad it worked for you.
Was it very uncomfortable? Do you buy it or do they supply it?
Hope all is ok with you xxx
Suzanne,
The hospital supply the machines & caps they are sized, in S, M & L. The one used on me was called Paxman. Have pasted link below which may help explain more. I also bought different shampoo & conditioner at the time to help try & promote hair growth can't remember name of it? I'll have a think.
Tip I was given too, was NOT to use a favourite conditioner during the treatment, as the smell in the future would always remind me of that time. I bought 'Simple' conditioner which I think was unperfumed.
Also get yourself a wide hairband. The sort you would use if you wanted to push back all your hair off your face, for example if cleansing your face. The idea is to put this on so it provides some protection for your ears, as your hair/head literally freezes. A beanie hat or headscarf/baseball cap is useful for journey home as your hair will be wet once it defrosts.
In all honesty it is pretty uncomfortable for about the first 10-15 mins, hence the co-codamol, & the distraction from my husband to take my mind off it after that it goes numb so you don't notice. I slept through most of my chemo sessions with it on!
My hospital provided a heated blanket but if not you can buy them. We bought one to use at home for pain relief. I also have a lovely soft blanket/wrap which I took with me to wrap round my shoulders as you can get cold.
paxmanscalpcooling.com/scal...
I am well thank you, & feeling very lucky.
Sarah xxx
Brings back memories!
Coming up to our one year since diagnosis!
So glad you are well xxx
Fab advice btw re cool cap
Thanks Jess, yes one year approaching fast huh! Hope you're good too xxx
I had the Paxman too and kept my hair although it is a bit thin now. I didn't find it too uncomfortable although the first few minutes were hard. I didn't feel cold but took a blanket every time just in case. I did find it annoying not to be able to wear my glasses with the cap on but it is only for a few hours. Definately worth it.
Just realised you managed to keep your glasses on. I took mine off and couldn't see a thing!
Yes I just about managed to squeeze them in the gap xxx
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