Vin, we had the same exact responses from our radiation oncologist and chemo oncologist - each one saying that the other treatment caused the nausea. The chemo oncologist said it again today. But regardless, the thing to be done is find a way to minimize it (the nausea) as the treatment must go on. I do appreciate your sharing your experiences with the nausea as we were starting to think his problems with it were excessive, as the doctors act as if the meds should be taking care of it. However, I believe the Cisplatin is a very strong regimen which some have more trouble with than others.

I have been trying to keep in mind and "gently" letting my husband know that even after radiation he may be feeling pretty rough, hopefully that will not last too long. And you are right, the doctors did not relay that information to us other than to say that he will need time to rest up after the Rt is done (as he may need surgery after, but we hope not). I have read of your wife's and others' experiences following radiation and it seems to be common to most. I guess they (the doctors) don't want to put any ideas in anyone's mind, so as to not have a patient "talk themselves into feeling bad." I can understand that but it is unfortunate that having to go through such grueling treatment, you would like to think that once the sessions were over, you would start improving gradually from that point instead of feeling worse.

I have quit (this weekend) trying to determine what is bringing on the nausea, as it seems to be a different situation each time, and erratic as you said, making it very difficult to pinpoint an exact cause. We are starting into the third week past the last round of chemo, and things have calmed down, so I am pretty convinced it is just the chemo for the most part causing the severe nausea for the 2 weeks following, but also from phlegm, radiation, meds, nerves, etc., as the nausea is continuing although not as bad 2 wks out from chemo. We are just trying to deal with it and move on, although that is easier to say this week since it (the nausea) has calmed down a bit - next week I will be frantic again, as third round of chemo is next Tuesday.

Anyway, thanks - it sure helps to know there are people out there to talk to about the 24-hour experience of cancer versus the text-book version.

Michele