Forum Discussion

Shirleywei's avatar
Shirleywei
Member
10 years ago

Side effects

Hi Ladies,

Hope you are all well.  I'm currently in my 2nd round of FEC-T, finding it bit harder this round then the first round of chemo.  I have a couple of questions about side effects and wondering if anyone can give me some advice.

1. I had a really bad heartburn last night, I know this is a common side effects with FEC-T, does anyone know any good remedies to ease heartburn or should I get the doctor to prescribe me with something?  I feel like I have too much chemicals in my body at the moment and trying to keep away from prescribed medicine if I don't need them.

2. My hair is almost all gone now and I'm finding the scalp is bit sensitive to touch, feels bit sore when I wash it.  I'm washing it with just water at the moment as I don't want to use normal shampoo.  I've read some people say to use baby shampoo or just normal soap.  What do you guys think is the best way to look after it?

Very much appreciated if someone can give me some advice.

Thanks,

Shirley

 

8 Replies

  • maryroset1's avatar
    maryroset1
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi again Shirley.

    I recently started using moo goo shampoo and conditioner as we were going on holiday and couldn't get my usual organic stuff. I can highly recommend it very gentle and no nasties. You can get it from health shops or directly from moo goo online.

    Maryrose 

  • Shirleywei's avatar
    Shirleywei
    Member
    10 years ago

    Thanks Tracey,  I haven't got the hot feeling yet but as summer is approaching, the ice pack thing sounds like a good idea! I will remember that.  Thanks again!

    Shirley xxx

  • Shirleywei's avatar
    Shirleywei
    Member
    10 years ago

    Maryrose,

    Thanks for your advise.  I will do some research on those organic shampoo! Maybe I can find the online or something.

    Shirley xxx

  • Shirleywei's avatar
    Shirleywei
    Member
    10 years ago

    Thanks Anita, for your advise.  I've booked in the look good feel better program for next week and really looking forward to it.  A lot of people have told me its really good.

    I'm trying to take it easy but it is hard not to get upset at times and wish all this could go away instantly.  I know with all the support I get and chatting to ladies on this network will make things easier.  You are right, we are on the same boat and I'm sure we can all get through it!

    All the best for your treatment!

    Shirley xxx

  • Anonymous's avatar
    Anonymous
    Not applicable
    10 years ago

    Hi Shirley, I haven't experienced the indigestion with FEC, but certainly had a sensitive scalp with hair loss. My husband nicknamed me the Nullabor Plain, as there was not a hair left on my body. I noticed that my skin got thinner and thinner. My scalp felt hot and uncomfortable, and I think that your skin getting thinner makes it more sensitive. My hair is starting to come back now, I wash what is there with baby shampoo, and just use my face moisturiser on my head to prevent the skin getting too dry. I hope that helps, a friend of mine used an ice pack wrapped in a tea towel to cool her scalp, and that made her more comfortable. Sending you a big cuddle, Trace ??????

  • maryroset1's avatar
    maryroset1
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hey Shirley.

    I experienced bad heartburn with FEC and was given nexium which provided great relief. Make sure you let your oncologist know as there is no need to suffer unnecessarily.

    Also my head was sore when my hair started to fall out. I washed it very gently with an organic shampoo and conditioner. 

    Take care of you.

    Maryrose 

     

  • Arleene's avatar
    Arleene
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Shirley,

    I would like to welcome you to the network? I too had trouble with my 2nd round of chemo but mainly tiredness and bone pain but pushed on as we have to, I lost my hair exactly 3 and 1/2 weeks after starting chemo only use warm water to wet your scalp as it is very sensitive at the moment and pat it dry and after you get dressed my breast care nurse advised me to use Sorbelene Cream with Vitamin E but just a little over your head to moisturise it and keep your scalp soft, I have had my 3rd chemo session now I'm doing okay but I always put Sorbelene cream on my head every day at least once and my scalp is not so sensitive anymore. My best advice for your heartburn is to speak to your chemo nurses you should have a number they usually give you before starting chemo if not talk to your doctor.

    Most importantly be kind to yourself and take time to rest if you need to, easier said than done I know but that's what we have to do and remember you are never Alone I have found this site is amazing someone will always give you advice and if you are down will lift you back up we are all in the same boat as each other and it's hard sometimes but if you ever get the opportunity to do a look good feel better workshop you should do it I did one yesterday and I highly recommend it to you, look after yourself, sending you a cuddle and a smile Anita ????????