Chemo symptoms - puffed more easily - anyone else?

Good on you for continuing to walk and swim Lisa! 

Thanks Tracey and Maryrose, its good to know other ppl experience similar things

Thanks Lindyloo.  I hope the Predisolone helped and didn't cause any other side effects for you.  Let us know how you went with the lung specialist

Yes. I have the puffing. Some days I would puff. Some days I wouldn't. Mostly after stairs but some days just if I walked fast.

At first I was worried, but once I realised that I wasn't going to die, I just ignored it. I kept on doing the Bondi to Bronte walk, puffing away. I'd slow down or even stop if the puffing got too bad, or I felt a bit faint. It amazed me how much I could puff without any other ill effects.

i think you can feel when it is the wrong kind of puffing. After 4 ACs and 7 taxols, I have real fatigue. So I either only walk on flat routes or I swim. It's the stairs that get me every time.

Hi Melvery,

I had 4'lots of TAC and am now on AC. Reason being is, TAC  caused lung inflammation and infection. I was getting puffed just having a shower! My resting heart rate is not good either. Anyway, my oncologist sent me for a lung function test where it was discovered that although the lungs have the capacity they are not getting the oxygen they need. I have been put on a high dose of Predisolone for two months. It has improved somewhat but still get quite puffed out after a little exertion (changing the bed sheets for example). I can go walking but don't push myself like I should. Panting and thumping heart put a stop to that! Unfortunately this is a rare side effect of both TAC and AC. Keep reminding your oncologist about it if it should get any worse and perhaps they can do a ct scan of the lungs to check what's going on? Although lots of people have commented that it probably is due to AC and probably nothing to worry about. I go for another lung function test next week and see a lung specialist so hoping all can be solved!

good luck with your treatment. Xx

Thanks Lisa, thats very reassuring

Hey there. I didnt have AC but i experienced the same thing. Basic walking made me puffed I remember i mentioned it to my oncologist several times as i thought it was heart related but she wasnt too concerned.  It was several weeks after chemo that i was able to walk with a spring in my step.

Take care of yourself  ??

Maryrose 

Hi Melvery, the same thing happened to me, and my oncologist advised that is why they test your blood the day before each chemo, as it can reduce the amount of red blood cells in your system. They recover in time, but they will be monitoring your blood count, my fbrother had to have a blood transfusion during his chemo to improve his blood ount. Hope that explains it for you, we're lucky that they do keep an eye on us. Sending you a big cuddle, Trace ??????

Hi Melvery

I remember getting puffed easily on AC. I don't remember if it was early on though, but definitely during it. I was keen to exercise but clearly remember having to stop half way around the block because I was was so stuffed! I think you will find that this is part of the AC experience, but you will probably adjust. 

It's good that you mentioned it to your nurse and it wouldn't hurt to let your oncologist know too. They can keep an eye on it.

all the best with the treatment , it's not fun but you will get through it.

Lisa x