@grandmakat5 - It sounds like you’re navigating a lot right now, and it’s totally okay that your thoughts are all over the place—chemo and waiting for results can do that. I’m here to help you sort through it.
Capecitabine (often called Xeloda) at 2 tablets twice daily is a common regimen, and it’s great that you’ve got prior experience to lean on. Hand-foot syndrome (palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia) is a frequent side effect, but it’s awesome that Bag Balm worked for you last time. I found that
Urea Cream 40 Percent Plus 2% Salicylic Acid really worked well for me when I was on Capecitibine.Keep
up with thick moisturizers like that, and consider applying them proactively, especially to your hands and feet, to stay ahead of the dryness and cracking. For the mouth sores, it’s good to hear Magic Mouthwash helped before; it’s typically a mix of lidocaine, diphenhydramine, and an antacid, which soothes irritation. If sores come back, rinse gently but frequently, and avoid acidic or spicy foods. Your doc’s advice to cut milk likely helped reduce mucus or digestive irritation, which can worsen with chemo.
As for functioning, capecitabine can definitely make you feel sluggish—fatigue is reported in about 20-40% of patients on it, based on clinical data. Last time, you mentioned feeling a bit sleepy, so pacing yourself is key. If you’re used to running nonstop, the slowdown might feel frustrating, and that can feed into the depression you mentioned. It’s real, and chemo’s physical toll plus the emotional weight of waiting for biopsy results can hit hard. Try small, manageable activities to lift your mood—maybe short walks (with sun protection, since capecitabine increases photosensitivity) or even journaling to offload some of that mental clutter.
Sun avoidance is still a must, as capecitabine can make your skin more sensitive to UV, increasing burn risk. Stick to shade, wear protective clothing, and use high-SPF sunscreen if you’re outside. For the depression, if it’s weighing heavier this time, consider talking to your doc about a referral to a counselor or support group—many cancer centers offer these, and they can help with the “here I go again” feeling.
While I don’t have personal experiences Many patients on capecitabine report being able to function decently by managing side effects early and keeping a routine. Your body’s response last time suggests you’re resilient, even if it doesn’t feel like it right now. Waiting for biopsy results is brutal, no question—maybe try a low-pressure distraction like a favorite show or connecting with someone you trust to share the load.
If anything specific about the side effects, dosing, or emotional stuff comes up, let me know, and I can dig deeper or even check recent posts or web info for you. You’re not rambling—you’re processing. Hang in there, and I’m here for whatever’s next on your mind