Forum Discussion

JessicaV's avatar
JessicaV
Member
11 years ago

My Herceptin-only fatigue pattern

Hi, I have been on herceptin only every 3wks for two treatments now,  and have found a weird pattern with fatigue. The first week I have a runny nose, achy joints and take things quite gently.  The second week, I gradually build up energy, and by the weekend feel that I am now finally past the fatigue.  I do quite a lot around the place with family members, and start to feel I might even be able to start to get my house and garden organised and cleaned up at long last and even plan when I might start work again.

Then Monday arrives. I feel fine till after lunch, and then the fatigue knocks me right off my feet into a heap, and I can barely walk around the house again, and just want to collapse into bed. This fatigue then sits on  me for three or four days, lifting a little by the weekend but not completely, Monday morning I wake feeling quite energetic again, as I get ready for the Chemo Cocktail Lounge for my next herceptin treatment.

Is it like this for others, or is everyone who is on just herceptin with no hormone treatment having different reactions altogether?

herceptin

1 Reply

  • Beryl_C_'s avatar
    Beryl_C_
    Member
    10 years ago

    Hi Jessica,

    I have Herceptin infusions every three weeks and am into my 5th year.

    There are many side effects. The fatigue is something I deal with on a daily basis and at times its very tempting to just sit all day. It comes and goes but its rare to have a day of 'before diagnosis' vitality and I make sure I monitor how I am feeling (emotional state) as it would be easy to slip into depression when it gets a bit too hard, eg, when shopping is like climbing Mt Everest.

    Another 'problem' is that others, most of them well meaning, have difficulty understanding that calling in for a cuppa is too much - you don't have to deal with their confusion or hurt, 'But I just want to help, or, I think it will do you good.' I am very clear about not feeling pressured and thank them for their care and kindness saying that the phone call and invite has lifted my spirit but I just need to be on my own.

    I've done a few Google searches on Herceptin but need to guard against information overload.

    Now and again I take paracetamol to ease the aches and pains.

    I'm careful with my diet, avoid sugar and fats but who knows ........ I fell good about looking after myself.

    There's one thing I have learned and that is if I have a day of 'better' energy I enjoy it! This doesn't mean I do more but I enjoy feeling better, sort of, 'Yes, this is how it can be and for now I'll just 'feel' and appreciate.'

    Beryl