Cycle 1 Week 3

Greeting to all.
It's the last week of Cycle 1 and this whole cycle has been full of new learnings and discoveries about Sarcoma. I have been very busy trying to relax and not go to work and not do too much at all. This is a difficulty that I am determined to succeed in no matter how hard it may seem....

So, the common side effects of Doxorubicin are very interesting indeed. I am travelling well but not a miracle worker and so yes, I have experenced a few minor side-effects.
Common side effects include:
1.Risk of infection due to reduction of white blood cells.When the white blood cell count becomes low (usually between treatment cycles) this is called Neutropenia, but then blood counts recover by the next cycle. This is why an injection is given straight after the chemo days and why I have blood tests every Wednesday after chemo (Day 8 and Day 15 of each cycle.)
2. Development of anaemia or bleeding more easily. If the red blood cell count becomes low (anaemia), the person may feel tired or look pale, or may bruise or bleed more easily.
3. Nausea and/or vomiting. This is quite common and many medications are given to avoid this problem. I did experience this on Day 7 unfortunately when I also had a terrible migraine for a few days.
4. Tiredness.  Fatigue is common, especially around Day 8, 9 and 10. I am told light exercise can help reduce or prevent fatigue. I have not felt a lack of energy, but am looking into getting an exercise bike to add it to my repertoire.
5. Hair loss and thinning. This will normally occur within 3-4 weeks of beginning treatment. The hair will grow back about 6 weeks after treatment has finished. I have brought some lovely new scarves and as some of you may already know, I have a great collection of hats. Hair loss has just begun and I think I am as ready as I can be for this....
6. Mouth and teeth. Chemotherapy can affect the lining of the mouth and throat. This can cause soreness in the mouth and throat and mouth ulcers and infections can occur. I have had a little swelling around my gums over the past week.
7. Food can taste strange and appetite can change.I have noticed differences from time to time, but I am healthily eating and drinking well, and am still making my way through the Good Food Guide and Cheap Eats of Melbourne. You can't keep a good gal down!
8. Urine discolored. Doxorubicin is orange/red and turns your urine orange/red straight after treatment- it was very exciting... (I have just brought an orange watch off ebay to match!)
9. Treatment may affect how the heart works. After several doses, doxo can cause heart problems (toxicity). That is why I have heart tests before starting chemo and have my heart checked during chemo. All is well with my heart and "it is well with my soul!".
10. Skin may be affected. During and sometimes after treatment, the skin is sensitive to the sun. It may also become a little darker due to an increase in pigment.

So, in all honesty, a little nausea, mixed with a few extra hours of sleep is all that I have experienced in Cycle 1. And vanity, vanity all is vanity, I will lose my lovely locks of hair very soon. When I need to, I will come to terms with that one. Just remember, no jokes about the hair OK! (This message is especially for my brothers, some of whom have lovingly already tried to make references to humour...)

Cycle 2 begins on Wednesday 17 August: Treatment Day 1Wed, Day 2 Thurs, Day 3 Fri

Love Your Life,
Georgia