I have been asked about the side effects with chemo. No, thankfully, I do not suffer from nausea, vomiting or heartburn! I take medication for that. The worst side effects are caused by neuropathy in my hands and face. Not much in my feet thus far. This is what neuropathy in my hands and fingers looks like:
This is what it feels like: notice that my fingertips are red and "prunish". Imagine soaking your hands and fingers in a bath of lye for a long time. Then try to hold objects, especially cold objects or even worse, cold metal objects like utensils, etc. Definitely Not Pleasant! My palms feel like I have been holding on to a sisal rope for the better part of the day, chafed like. I constantly wear mittens and gloves in the house. The neuropathy in my face: a really, really cold tip of the nose, some difficulty chewing (it hurts initially, then slowly diminishes) and swallowing and it is painful to cry, so I don't. There is medication for neuropathy. But for the time being I am holding off till I find out if it helps or not.
In the meantime, I am doing better as far as nerve damage is concerned because my oncologist finally agreed to reduce the oxaliplatin dose in an attempt to prevent long-term side effects. Youhou!!! And it seems to make a bit of a difference already!!
In all, I have had a good week! Take it away Justin Timberlake with: Can't stop the feeling very uplifting, gives a real boost
Back in a day or two! Take care!
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