Weeping eyes and Docetaxol
When I was going through chemotherapy, 2 years ago, I suffered with eyes that just ran constantly during the Docetaxol doses and for several months beyond that. I have been on Palbociclib and Letrazole for 15 months now and have suffered similar problems, just not quite as severe thank goodness. While I was going through chemo, many people seemed to have the same problems and eye drops did not help. I have finally found a reasonable solution and have to share it with you in case anyone else is suffering. I have found a really good Optometrist. She says that cancer patients should be monitored at least every 12 months but it should be more regularly in the couple of years following diagnosis. I am currently seeing her for 3 monthly routine visits but have had to go every two weeks for the last couple of months due to issues with my eyes. They are all bulk billed. I do have to pay $50 once a year for the retinal MRI. She has also recommended eye gel and capsules that have really helped. I wish I had known about all this while I was going through chemo, as maybe I would not have suffered the horrid red inflamed eyes that weeped constantly and the resulting impeded vision. The eye gel is Xailin Gel $17 tube. I was told to use it 4 times a day when the problems were bad, I am now using 3 times a day. I think only available from the Optometrist. The capsules are Dry Eye Forte, also I think only available from the Optometrist. They aren't cheap but it is a big packet that lasts a month. You take them morning and night. You have to stop them about 2 weeks prior to surgery and for at least two weeks after, and you will need to check with your Oncologist that you are okay to use them. I was only recommended Hylo-forte drops from my previous chain store Optometrist, and while they were okay, they were not nearly as effective or long lasting as the gel and cost about $33. ( available from Terry White Chemmart and from Optometrists) The eye problem was not on the list of side effects my Oncologist gave me, and his recommendation to use eye drops was not helpful. I struggled to find anyone that could help with my problem, the lack of information was frustrating and added to the struggle of getting through the chemo. I am also recommended to hot compress on my eyes once a day to help clear the tear ducts as shortly after chemo I was found to have blocked tear ducts, probably due to the inflammation. That makes the dry eyes worse and is also a bit painful. Hoping this makes life a little easier for those going through the same problems. Please find a good Optometrist, one who has your eye health as a priority and will monitor you through and after treatment.