Different chemo side effects after surgery

[Hattiem]

I was diagnosed in March and had 3 cycles of carboplatin/paclitaxel chemo every 3 weeks. I had surgery in June - a hysterectomy and removal of my omentum and cancer cells from my liver and rectum. 18 days ago I had a 4th carbo/pac with 2 further cycles to go before the end of current treatment. So far I've responded really well to treatment.

After my first 3 chemos I could predict that the first 7-10 days post chemo I would have side effects and then a good few days to a week of feeling OK before my next chemo. Those few days of feeling OK gave me the strength to get through the next cycle.

Recovery after my last chemo initially went as predicted and I started to feel better after 10 days however 5 days ago I started to feel nauseous and exhausted and this feeling hasn't improved. I've not got any other symptoms of infection and I've spoken to the chemo nurses who don't seem concerned. My next chemo is in 3 days and I'm worried it's going to make recovery really difficult if I go in to it feeling like this. It's also so difficult emotionally not having a good few days feeling OK. I suppose my question is has anybody else experienced different chemo side effects after surgery? If so how did you deal with them? Thanks.

[Lyndy]

I think that the final rounds are challenging because they are cumulative and your body is also dealing with a huge surgery. I found that there was a different side effect each time that caught me out. If the nausea really gets to you maybe you will need more anti sickness and for longer.

I agree that not having even a few days respite is hard. You could ask for a week postponement but I suspect you will get your head down and go for it xx

[Davonian in reply to Lyndy]

Hattiem,I totally agree with Lyndy. If you have anti sickness meds then take as soon as you even start to feel nauseous. As you get to the last few cycles, you just want to get them done, finished but any concerns ring your CNS (cancer nurse specialist).

🤗👍👊

xx

[Hattiem in reply to Lyndy]

Thank you. I've spoken to my nurse specialist and am getting bloods tomorrow. I may need to delay my chemo but obviously want to get it done if I can - just want to get treatment finished!

[Fluffyjumper]

Hi Hattie. Hang in there. Remember that your body is recovering from major surgery and you’d feel tired and nauseous irrespective of the cumulative effects of chemo. Remind yourself how well you are doing. It’s tough. Be kind to yourself.

[Trickysite]

Last chemo rounds did pack more of a wallop. Agree with all comments. Hang on to the fact that you are on the end of the lap and once the chemo is stopped you will start to feel much better. That's the goal and it is in sight.

[Tillymint61]

Sorry you are having this happen to you. Those days of feeling ok between treatments made it manageable for me too. I would arrange my visits from friends lunches out etc for that period so understand how you feel. One thing that did happen to me was I became non-symptomatic for water infections and would feel completely out of sorts. Might be an idea to have your water dipped to check. Also during this very hot spell increase your water intake. Even slight dehydration can make you feel unwell.Also if you haven't already ask to change your anti sickness drug if you are still getting nausea on the current one. Poor sleep during the hot weather can impact on your general wellbeing too so rest up during the day If you can..Hope things improve. You are more than half way through so have confidence in your blood results being good enough to carry on. Xx

[delia2]

Hi. You could be anemic. I had to have a blood transfusion after my fifth cycle and I felt really terrible until I got it. But the last two cycles really take it out of you. Xx

[Hattiem in reply to delia2]

Thank you, my CNS suggested anaemia. I had bloods this morning so just waiting for the results.

[Joanne59]

Hi Hattie, the effects of chemo on us is hard to get through. The waves of nausea and fatigue went on with me for months after I finished, I ate well with plenty of spinach in smoothies I made, and vitamin supplements . I had relaxing massages/facials etc. Just general TLC. You have been through a traumatic experience and a gruelling treatment, be kind to yourself, best wishes 😘

[FlowerRose]

I'm so sorry you're experiencing this. Yes, I'm afraid for me the amount of time i felt fine as my six cycles of chemo went on grew shorter and shorter. Towards the end i was really glad it was over because I'd feel like i just finally recoverd a little then it would be time again for another. I feel that's part of why they have to limit the number of treatments? It feels like just one blow after another towards the end. Sorry this isn't a happy answer.

[Hattiem]

Thanks for the advice everyone. My neutrophils are low, despite being on filgrastim injections after the last chemo. My chemo has been delayed by a week and also I've been prescribed a different anti sickness tablet which will hopefully help.