Hi there

Hi Sweetichops

• Most people tolerate immunotherapy fairly well. With only a few side effects which will be closely monitored. The health team will put you at ease and explain everything before you start. Take someone close with you for support. You will have a blood sample taken a few days before. The nivolumab is usually given as an injection under the skin in your tummy it does not hurt. The ipilimumab can go through a line in your chest or canula in the back of your hand. Ive had 10 cycles now and what was scary first time round now seems normal. You will be well looked after by the nurses at the clinic. All the best for your treatment and hopefully it will give you a better quality of life.
• Ed

Thank you so much for replying,it's very much appreciated. I'm hoping I can choose for both to be in my arm, the thought of an injection in my tummy I can't deal with ,Even more with the other going in my chest, I'm sounding so much like a big baby I'm sorry .

I went through immunotherapy , Pembrolizumab, a few years ago for 13 months. No problems or side effects. I had a fixed line in my arm that had to be flushed weekly, but it ment I received the drug so much easier. I have deep veins, getting a needle in was difficult,painful sometimes and frustrating for all concerned 

Hi seetiechops

You are not sounding like a big baby. It is a genuinely frightening and scary time getting ready to start your first treatment. But once you have been to your first session the next visit will not be so daunting. Take someone with you and dont turn down any offers of help you may receive.

Ed

Hi Sweetiechops and thank you for your post.

I am sorry to learn of your situation. I can imagine this is a worrying time for you.

It's very common for people to feel anxious prior to starting cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy.

Cancer treatment can be a scary prospect, with potential side effects.

In your pre-assessment appointment, the side effects of your treatment will be discussed. It is important to remember that everyone is different and may react to chemotherapy in different ways.

For most people, chemotherapy side effects are temporary and disappear once treatment has finished.

There are different ways to give immunotherapy. The most common method is through a vein (intravenous). Usually, this requires a needle, but for those who are needle-phobic or whose veins are hard to find, other options are available, such as a PICC LINE(peripherally inserted central catheter). This is inserted into your arm, and once in place, it does not require needles to access it. It remains in your arm throughout the entire course of your treatment.

If you are experiencing anxiety and depression, it is important to seek assistance. Begin by consulting your GP or a mental health professional; if you have one.

Some people find counselling useful. It may be possible for you to receive NHS counselling, but how long the waiting list is will vary from area to area. Some GP practices may also offer counselling. The NHS website has information about accessing NHS Counselling on their website.

There is also the NHS Every Mind Matters website which has useful tips and advice on how to cope in these situations.

Maggies are a great source of support for patients and can also provide counselling and talking therapy to help patients process what they have been through and help people cope and hopefully move forward. 

If you are unfamiliar with the department where you are due to have your immunotherapy it might be helpful to visit before your first treatment, to get to know the area and who may be around.

You may be able to bring a relative or friend with you during your treatment.  Also bringing along something such as a magazine, book, audiobook, or music with headphones may assist in alleviating some anxiety.

 Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5 pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards

Tina

Thank you so so much I appreciate you post ... 

Thank you very much