Exercise during chemo

Update: after 5 infusions of Alimta, which I’m tolerating well, my CEA has only dropped 3 points, leading to me see that it’s effectiveness may soon be waining. My 2nd opinion oncologist at MD Anderson suggested adding Keytruda to my Alimta infusions when the Alimta alone stops working. My primary oncologist asked me why I should consider this when the immunotherapy I tried before (Imfinzi) didn’t work and allowed my cancer to metasticize. I can’t answer her. Has anyone had Alimta AND Keytruda simultaneously? And another question: what’s the protocol to get my primary onc and my second opinion onc talking to each other? Thanks.

This is a challenging subject. My wife like you has her specialist Oncologist at Mayo and a local oncologist where we live. We consider Mayo to be the lead for disease strategy and our local oncologist, one who executes the strategy on a daily/monthly basis labs, Octreotide, Afinitor prescriptions), etc.

Luckily, they work well together. Our local providers practice is a Mayo Network Partner so that may make a difference. We also haven’t run into any ‘controversial’ issues like yours.

In your case, I may ask to arrange a three way conference call with them with you acting as the moderator asking them to develop a strategy that will work in your best interest. A live phone call with all on the line may make a difference. Too many people hide behind emails and messaging.

Just my two cents.

Thanks for your suggestion. My local doctor is in a different network and I can understand the complications. I have a difficult time reaching either by phone, but will start asking for their suggestions to accomplish a 3-way convo. I certainly can’t answer her (rhetoric ?) question or form any scientific conclusion. I am uncomfortable “translating” info between them, even though I take notes. My primary seems to have welcomed the 2nd’s suggestions in the past, but not some much this week. She also seemed rushed during our meeting this week. That was unusual and unsettling to me, but may not have had anything to do with me...I can’t imagine what it takes to treat cancer patients.

George, I just had first round of chemo this Thursday& Friday. went walking Friday & Saturday morning. I was not able to sleep Sunday but I was feeling good so I went to the gym at 3:30 am and worked out for about 80 min. did not get tired. Question is should I worry about going to gym because of Germs?
I did bring gloves and a can of disinfectant. I did feel good after it. My plan is to go early morning maybe only three times a week when feeling up for it

You need to check with your doctor to see if you are immune compromised or not. They can answer from your most recent labs. From my cancer experience, I was immune compromised initially. The doctors absolutely told me when I was not. While I was, they said to stay away from gyms along with a plethora of other places. Good for you having the energy to go to the gym! Take the opportunity to be active as you feel able. I wish you well.

Thanks for fast response and info will check with doctor

What type of exercise would you suggest for stage 4 lung cancer

After clearance from your doc you will want to start slow and steady...an organized class would be great ..... if not , any exercise that increases blood flow is good.. no specific one....best of luck👍

Janlanderz - What type of exercise did you do before your diagnosis? As a retired personal trainer and a stage iv nsclc patient, that would be my first question to you!

I was diagnosed in Dec of 2018 and did not start chemo until Feb 2019.. During that time I was trying to hit the gym at least 3 times per week and basically only did the bike and a bit of rowing.. I use to ride my bike a bit, but 3 months ago developed a PVT blood clot and now I am afraid of riding my bike. I do go to tai chi on Wednesday's at a hospice centre which is geared to be very slow.... I try to walk once in a while in order to keep the blood flowing in my legs especially since the clot... but due to a bit of depression.. I don't get out walking as much as I should... like last night I pushed myself to go for a small walk at a park that I like to go to ..