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Docetaxel chemo: How did you avoid having nail issues?
I am halfway through 6 cycle docetaxel regimen, and although I have not had nail issues yet, there is a concern they may be coming.
So my question is this – in looking over things on the Internet it appears that folks are suggesting Polybalm or some type of Euceryn or Vaseline applied to the nails and nail beds to avoid problems. I’ve seen some I recommendations for the Polybalm, which is expensive, but others are saying it’s really not much different than straight Vaseline or Euceryn or similar
Does anyone here have any experience with that, or other recommendations? Just trying to get ahead of this if I can.
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You can get cold gloves to reduce chemo impact. You can also use a cold cap to reduce hair loss.
I'm going on my 4th docetaxel infusion; so far I've not had any problems with my nails and minimal hair loss; of course I've got 3 more infusions scheduled so we will see. I hope you well with the leastest loss as possible .
My husband used Aquaphor, similar to but better than Vaseline and not costly, during his docetaxel treatments. Just another option for you to consider. Good luck and hang in there.
@lag
Thanks for this reply. was it helpful in controlling any nail problems for him?
@majark Yes. Though he didn't have serious nail problems, it did seem to soothe the nail and cuticle areas. He did lose the hair on his head, chest, and pubic area during treatment. No one mentioned a cold cap or cold gloves to us, perhaps because it was 2016.
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1 ReactionI finished my 6th infusion two weeks ago and no such issues. My side effects were mostly fatigue, 85% hair loss, a rash on my hands and forearms for about 10 days a week or so after each infusion, and now my eyes have been watering after the final two infusions. Best of luck!
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1 Reaction@lag Thank you for the additional reply
@florida11 Thanks for posting, maybe I'll luck out and nails wont be a big issue. Any eye watering I've had, which has been just a day or two her and there, has been controlled by just OTC Systane
Thank you. I have been using Systane as well, but its been about 10 days for watery eyes. Hoping it stops soon!
I iced my fingers during all of my infusions to prevent neuropathy. I am over a year out and no problems.