Expect the Unexpected
During the first few cycles of chemo, I had some unexpected experiences. In this blog, I want to offer a few tips. My book covers other unexpected occurrences that transpired after my eight cycles of chemo.
By this point in my treatment I already had many blood tests. When I think back to my anxiety about having to have blood work, long before my diagnosis, it is so ironic how this did not impact me , anxiety-wise. However, because of having to have many blood tests, you get to know which folks know what they are doing and those who you wonder ever got this job. -- This one woman took forever- I could see she was not an expert at this, and she hurt me. Why should I have to feel pain or be made to feel uncomfortable before an infusion? I didn't let this woman near me again. When she called my name for the subsequent chemo cycle, and I could see who it was, I politely said I would wait to see another phlebotomist.
I understood the need for a port. I didn't like it, but I could see how necessary it was. What I didn't expect, was that initial poke from the needle inducing the chemo. Ouch. I learned that applying a Lidocaine cream one hour prior to the infusion, covering the area with Saran Wrap (which is easier to peel off) deadens the sensation of the poke. It really works.
Some or even most of you, will be getting a shot of Neulasta after a cycle of chemo infusion. This is to counteract the drop of white blood cells and strengthen the immune system. The first time I had the shot there was a rather strong burning sensation- I think I felt it more so as they injected me slowly. I since discovered that if the Neulasta is taken out of the refrigerator, where it is stored, and warmed up to room temperature, it feels like getting any other injection. Remind the nurse to do this.
My treatment was at Mass General in Boston. I live in Rhode Island. For those of you who have ever been to Boston, particularly during rush hour, you can understand that you often find yourself sitting in a "parking lot"-- which is not fun, particularly after treatment.
As we were driving home, my glucose sensor alerted me to an incredibly high spike in my glucose levels. We were actually contemplating turning around and going back to the hospital, it was that high. I ultimately contacted the hospital and discovered they had laced my chemo with a saccharine solution, a typical procedure. They knew I was a diabetic. Did they not anticipate what would happen? Thereafter, we made it our responsibility to remind them to use an alternative solution.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Individual differences may vary; personal health decisions should be made by a qualified professional.
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