Medications and side effects…..

Let’s talk about the medications and what side effects you may or may not experience. The chemotherapy medications are strong and can be very toxic. Having said this, they are this way to kill all the invaders that want to do your body harm. Also remember, the chemo not only attacks the bad cells but will also attack the good cells. This is why it’s important to get the rest you need. Eat when you can. Stay hydrated.

Side effects from the medication can have the following effects –

1. nausea

2. diarrhea

3. loss of appetite

4. vomiting

5. weakness

6. fatigue

7. Weight loss

8. Confusion/forgetfulness (they call this chemo brain)

These are a few of the top side effects you may experience. Although these are possible, it is also possible not to have any side effects. I spoke to fellow cancer warriors during my infusion treatments and learned the medications didn’t bother them and they were still able to work as well as just going about their daily activities.

I was not so fortunate. The medications I received for St.4 rectal cancer was not very friendly for me. I was very sick. I had all the above. I made it through by resting, eating when I could and going out in the world when I felt better. My family was my rock at home helping me work through the hard days.

Dr.Shaker (my doctor) was always there to help me with the toolbox of medications he has on hand to combat the side effects. There are medications to help with nausea, diarrhea etc. The following are a few of the medications that can help. Ask your own doctor if the following might work for you.

1. Zofran – nausea medication 

2. IV fluids to help with dehydration 

3. Steroids to help with inflammation, swelling caused by tumors, it also helps with nausea and vomiting, boost the appetite to help with eating 

4. Tramadol for pain 

5. Also, Ibuprofen or Tylenol help with pain if you don’t care for pain medications. 

6. Imodium for diarrhea

Always talk to your doctor about what you are doing and what medications you are taking, along with what is working or not working. The doctor is on the same team as you and will do what they can to assist you through the battle to make it as comfortable as they can for you. Every cancer battle is different; every patient is individual with how the medications work. So, as some patients may not have any issues, there are patients who do experience these.

Do what works for you. What makes you feel better, comfortable and can get you through this battle? Think about it, write it down, then discuss this with your support group and the doctor. CancerPathGuide is here for you every step of the way.