Starting FEC-D tomorrow

It is really difficult to accept that we need to have chemo when we are told that the surgery had clear margins and so the cancer we had is gone. But as you no doubt understand there is that chance that a few stray cells may still be in the body somewhere and chemo is very effective at killing these and preventing future problems. I had FEC-D chemo last year and it is a challenge. I found each round resulted in slightly different side effects so it became a matter of being prepared for the most common effects and treating these as they occurred. With FEC I had some nausea, headaches and fatigue. Someone said it is a bit like the flu or a hangover that lasts about a week and that is how it was for me. Then I would feel relatively normal (although you do need to e careful in the middle week becuase your immune system will be at its lowest) until the next dose. Make sure you drink plenty of water to flush it through your system particularly in the first 48 hours. Your idea of going for a walk each day will help to lessen the nausea and tiredness for you. Make sure you take your anti nausea medication even if you feel ok because it works best if you can avoid feeling sick in the first place. It is probably best to blog back on here when you are about to change to Docetaxel as this has different effects and it is probably best to just deal with FEC for now. Just take it one step at a time. It is surprising but after a while you get used to the routine of it and the time actually goes quite quickly. Another important thing is to look after your mouth. Biotene mouthwash is good because you get a yucky taste in your mouth and a very dry mouth. I used to rinse my mouth out everytime I ate. I am sure that there will be some other ladies who can give you some excellent advice from their experiences with this chemo too. Let us know how you go. Take care. Deanne xxx