What has helped you through your journey?
I thought I would start a post to see what has helped people through their journey, so that maybe something might help others.
I will start with:
Ahh Bra Type tops - I found these great post op...
Forum Discussion
- Nail hardener - I got a bottle of manicure Intensive Nail Hardener in my "taxotere" goody bag from my chemo clinic when I went in for my pre-chemo education session, and I apply it as recommended (every day for 3 days, then remove and reapply for a total of 14 days and then repeat). I do this beginning about 3-5 days before chemo and continue until the 14 days are up. This is supposef to help stop the taxotere from damaging the nails (and so far so good - no sign of nail damage).
- Biotene Toothpaste & mouthwash - For the dry mouth and sore tongue - so far no ulcers (Thank goodness)
- Homemade Mouthwash - bicarb and salt mixed together in hot water and then rinsed and gargled up to 4+ times a day (especially before bed/ sleep) - For dry mouth, sore mouth, ulcers, and to help prevent oral infections etc.
- Soft toothbrush - I bought a large packet of about 6 for about $10 and I throw them out after each chemo cycle - to keep them clean and fresh, and to help prevent infection,so a new one every 21 days (so far 1/2 way through chemo and no mouth ulcers) toothbrushes can harbour a LOT of germs.
- ANY food that takes my fancy - no matter how "unhealthy", if my body wants it and I can tolerate eating it, then I will buy it and try it (I am having a LOT of issues with lack of appetite, total uninterest in food, and smells of foods etc (Not so much nausea) - I have decided that ANY calories and nutrition have to be better than none and I can deal with any added weight gain (if this occurs) after I finish chemo etc. So If my body wants KFC or McDonalds, or chocolate custard then that is what it will get. (I am awaiting an appointment with a nutritionist though, to make sure this is OK :-) ).