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He starts chemo: Now what do I expect?

Pancreatic Cancer | Last Active: Sep 11, 2023 | Replies (26)

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@ncteacher

I'm a poor candidate to reply about icing, as my first oncologist strongly advised against icing. So I'll leave it to others to talk about that. I didn't try it.

Peripheral neuropathy is pain, tingling, numbness and weakness in distant body structures, such as fingers and toes. I've had 8 chemo rounds since late April (that includes a 6-week layoff due to a gallbladder attack and surgery--long story). My neuropathy has been cumulative, worse with each cycle, but all in all not bad. I may not be typical, so please don't take that as applying to every patient. My neuropathy is worst for a few days after chemo and then dissipates, so far at least. It hits in my throat, tongue and fingers; I haven't had any in my toes or feet. It's cold sensitive but isn't present all the time. For example, right now while I'm typing, I'm fine--I don't feel any tingling. If I go into the fridge to get something, the neuropathy will spark because of the cold. I use potholders to retrieve things from the fridge and freezer, and I avoid cold drinks for several days, although I've discovered I can drink cold Diet Coke from the fridge. (What is up with that??) During the 6-week layoff, it almost completely resolved.

Re compression socks, personally I would be unable to bear those. I had to wear them after my hospitalization in fall 2020, and I can't stand how tight they are. Your husband should be able to get up and walk during the infusion; you just unplug the IV machine and wheel it along with you. Moving around would help minimize swelling. Also, in my clinic, the infusion chairs are recliners, so patients can elevate their feet, which would help as well.

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Replies to "I'm a poor candidate to reply about icing, as my first oncologist strongly advised against icing...."

Thank you so much for this information. The description that the doctor gave of the cold drinks or food making it feel like you're swallowing glass sounded terrifying. She did say that it's usually on days 3-5 of treatment week, I was afraid it was all the time! I appreciate your description of your experience. I did get a chuckle out of the diet Coke! I hope you continue to do well with the neuropathy during your treatment.