Forum Discussion
The most newbie question ever?
I’ve searched and honestly cannot find an answer to this in factsheets or anywhere else... what does chemo feel like when it’s being administered? Is it cold? Room temperature? Do you not really notic...
The first chemo infusion I had, I distinctly recall a gripping pain in my lower spine where I already have osteoarthritis. It was quite distinct and lasted a couple of seconds, sort of like spasms. Other than that I just felt a sort of feeling as though I had severe jet lag. Nothing more, but just not pleasant, but doable. The subsequent chemo sessions were just a feeling of jet lag and I felt very tired, and would not have been driving home. I am told that also if an accident did occur and I was driving home that perhaps I would not be covered by insurance, so I never took the risk of driving my car home. I had a friend or family member take me to all chemo, except when I continued with Herceptin, I drove myself and also for the 6 weeks of radiation therapy I drove myself there and back also.
In addition I did feel a sort of weird out of body experience, but nothing too weird. The unknown can be frightening. Overall I would just say that often I felt a severe case of "jet lag".
I never had anyone describe the experience of a chemo infusion to me before I had my first infusion, so I hope my description helps you somewhat.
Ask any questions and I hope I will give you an honest answer on my experience.
As @Afraser says try to not worry about what may not happen.
I got through 4 AC's 12 paclitaxol and continued for 12 months of Herceptin, and 6 weeks of radiation therapies (both boobs), and now on AI's. All this and having a couple of heart conditions to be considered. The oncologists know their stuff and you are in good hands.
In addition I did feel a sort of weird out of body experience, but nothing too weird. The unknown can be frightening. Overall I would just say that often I felt a severe case of "jet lag".
I never had anyone describe the experience of a chemo infusion to me before I had my first infusion, so I hope my description helps you somewhat.
Ask any questions and I hope I will give you an honest answer on my experience.
As @Afraser says try to not worry about what may not happen.
I got through 4 AC's 12 paclitaxol and continued for 12 months of Herceptin, and 6 weeks of radiation therapies (both boobs), and now on AI's. All this and having a couple of heart conditions to be considered. The oncologists know their stuff and you are in good hands.