I have my fourth of seven chemos and 14th of 35 rads tomorrow (Monday 8/9).
So far, I've had a little indigestion after the first chemo, which was handled with antacid. Then I had hiccups pretty bad the day after chemo last week, which subsided after a day.
A lot that I read suggests the bad side effects really start this week. Is that folks' experience?
Here's where I am:
I believe I will have gained a pound or two when I'm weighed tomorrow.
I am starting to wear down. I had a low-grade headache Friday and Saturday. I am losing my sense of taste. I'm still eating regular meals; I have some pain at the back of my throat, which is red and has white scar tissue in a couple spots. I have taken two half Vicodins; otherwise no pain meds yet.
I have trouble sleeping for very long, and yet I don't feel that tired most of the time. I have dry mouth, but I can't say it's been bad. The worst sensation is my tongue.
Have had some issues with constipation because of my reduced exercise and the anti-nausea meds.
My treatment team says to stay active. I ran a total of 15 miles last week, including 5 on Saturday, and did a 17-mile bike ride today. The best I felt both days was while I was exercising. I ran a marathon May 30, four days after my diagnosis, so I consider this exercise moderate, though I think the running will become walking pretty soon.
Oddly, the most normal I feel is on the bike. I chew gum and my saliva production seems just about normal while I'm riding.