Post chemo

riss81
riss81 Member Posts: 33 ✭
in Now what? The highs and lows of survivorship
Hello all
I am a triple negative stage 1 breast cancer serviver  I have been cancer free since April. But I'm struggling with some post chemo issues
It's been 6 months since my last one and my skin is supper sensitive and it never use to be
 I have started to go through menopause and my hair is crazy curly. Is there any one out there that has been through the same thing that can help me.


Thank you

Comments

  • Afraser
    Afraser Member Posts: 4,466 ✭
    @riss81

    Sensitive skin may be a delayed chemo reaction - crazy curly hair definitely is. If you lost your hair during chemo, growing back curly, even frizzy is quite normal. Even if you didn’t lose your hair, chemo targets rapidly growing cells - your hair follicles are unintended targets so hair growth is stopped or significantly altered. Many people experience changes in colour and texture too. The good news is that you are highly likely to revert to your original type of hair - the bad news is that it may take a while. Regular trimming can help but you may just have to
    adjust to being a curlilocks in the meantime. 

    Your GP may be able to advise on your skin and any menopausal issues. Best wishes. 

  • jennyss
    jennyss Member Posts: 2,091 ✭
    Hi @riss81,
    I went curly too. It straightened out in about 3 months. After radiotherapy I slathered on moisturiser - sorbolene, Vaseline Intensive Care - anything! Hope your doctor can help you with your other symptoms.

    from jennyss in Western NSW
  • Coastiejas
    Coastiejas Member Posts: 108 ✭
    Hi @riss81
    I had pretty sensitive skin before chemo and radiation and it's gotten worse since, I finished radiation 5 months ago and chemo 7 months ago. I rash up at the drop of a hat now. I got some corticosteroid cream from my gp to sooth it a bit. I  find using qv bar, qv gentle wash, qv shampoo and conditioner  and qv cream helps. I also wear sensitive gloves (non latex) when washing up and use bosistos sensitive washing detergent for my laundry. 
    I'm embracing the chemo curl too..... my hair has come back all curly ( it was wavy before it fell out this time last year!) It's also thicker than it was which is a bonus!
    Best wishes for your treatment! 
  • Coastiejas
    Coastiejas Member Posts: 108 ✭
    Forgot to say my oncologist suggested fezolinetant for my hot flushes,  apparently you can take it if you're on hormone therapy as it won't interfere with the endocrine pathway.  Your gp can prescribe it. I haven't tried it yet but I might soon as I get lots of hot flushes!
  • 241023
    241023 Member Posts: 5 ✭
    @riss81, I was using baby products from the radiation therapy and till now (it is hmm, 8 months) and worked.
    You are still beautiful as you are dont worry about skin and other things... I am going through same thing and reminding myself that.
    Menopause- that will stay I am consulting with my GP on different options but it is important to reach out to someone before it gets worse- physically and emotionally.
    I am so proud of you :)

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