Forum Discussion

arpha875's avatar
arpha875
Member
3 years ago

Paclitaxel side effects

Hi everyone,

I have finished 3 out of 4 rounds of AC and still have 12 rounds of paclitaxel to go :( I get quite anxious and worried when i think of how many more weeks of chemo i have left to go though. it feels like i've already been doing this for so long already. I've been using a cold cap to try and keep my hair - I've seen a bit of thinning already. I'm just wondering if there are any ladies who've had similar chemo plans and could share how paclitaxel side effects were? just want to mentally prepare myself for what's more to come.
chemotherapy-side-effects
  • Cath62's avatar
    Cath62
    Member
    3 years ago
    Hi @arpha875, I found AC harder than taxol. I did however get numbness  in my toes and the oncologist reduced my taxol dose to get me through treatment. I agree with comments @Afraser made. Everyone is different but do speak up to your oncologist if you notice anything as they can help. Best wishes 
  • Afraser's avatar
    Afraser
    Member
    3 years ago
    Unfortunately side effects are variable and one person’s experience is quite different from another even on the same chemo therapy. That said, paclitaxel can be hard on soft tissues - nose, mouth, eyes. It’s usually all temporary and best to just soldier through, side effects often sort themselves when you stop. Slightly blurry eyes, crusty and slightly bloody noses can occur. I lost most of my taste buds - annoying but not dangerous! Truly excellent for keeping your weight down! Paclitaxel can affect the nerves in extremities, hands and feet - again, it usually rectifies when you stop the treatment but any tingling or odd sensations should be reported to your oncologist straight away as it’s possible to diminish the chances of any longer term effects. And of course, you may get none of these! Remember this is just twelve rounds, every one completed is one less to go, count them down. Six and you’re half way there. Best wishes.