Chemo Fec-D

@suzi_s61 I just had my 4th and final AC yesterday and start 12 weekly paclitaxel on 10 December so we can do this together! I was lucky with AC and didn't have to. Any side effects so hoping this continues with the paclitaxel. I'll also be having carboplatin every 3 weeks also.

I'm im getting a picc line inserted next week as it took 4 attempts to get the cannula in yesterday, so no swimming for me over summer!!

Thanks for your advice ladies. Very much appreciated.

Most Taxol side effects clear up after treatment stops. It can be a bit hard on soft tissue, so sometimes tired or blurry eyes or sore, occasionally bloody noses. I lost my taste buds - great for weight control! Luckily the handful of things I could still taste were healthy! Taxol can affect nerve endings in your hands and feet - any sign of tingling or pins and needles let your oncologist know. Ice water or ice mittens during treatment may be preventative. Best wishes.

Hey @Suzi_S61,

I had 12 x weely paclitaxel.  Paint your nails with a gel coat nail polish.  I had no nail problems and  had very little issues on this drug.  I got a weird skin rash (not usual) and yes, definitely makes you sun sensitive, everywhere,not just the nails.  Apart from that all was good. 

xoxox

Hi ladies, its been a while. I have been having my Fec and had my 3rd cycle last Wednesday. I have been lucky with symptoms. Not too much bother. I have to start the last half of chemo Paclitaxel at a lower dose weekly from 13th December. I believe it gives you flu like symptoms and your nails are sensitive to UV light so should paint them a dark colour. Just wondering if anyone has received Paclitaxel and what their experience was or any advice thanks. 

@lrb_03 Hello and thanks for the info. Unfortunately they don't have the chemo cool cap at the Hospital I am going to. At the end of the day it will grow back again and I will get rid of the red in my hair as a bonus lol. Glad I have some insight as to what to expect now and I do know it's different for everyone. Did you have many issues with a dry mouth? . I have bought biotene toothpaste and a spray. Also the dentist sold me some tooth mouse. 

Hi @Suzi_S61. As @kmakm (thanks for the tag) says, I had fec-d. As you say, the f stands for 5fu. The other 2 are 2 different drugs. Yes, I had side effects. I did start to lose my hair right on schedule, 2 weeks after my first dose. Ask if they use cold caps at your hospital. @kezmusc had great success. From what I've read, it's all about the fit of the cap. It works to some degree in something like 50 or 60% of those who use it.  I had stomach cramps, and alternated between constipation & diarrhoea. The docetaxol i had in 21 day cycles, like the fec. I had different side effects with that.
I did manage to work throughout, just 3 days/week &worked on Monday,  Wednesday & Friday . I had the odd day off sick, but was lucky enough to be in a very supportive workplace.
It's a crapfest, but doable

Love it Suzi!  :D

I think everyone has the same thought at the beginning.  Not many sane people line up to be poisoned. LOl. 

 I had huge arguments with myself as well.  Once you get started the decision is made and you can tick number one off the list and start the countdown.