Any advice on how to look after finger nails that are lifting and spliting. Another side effect of Docetaxel chemo. It has affected all my finger nails and my big toe nails. Any advice would be welcome!
I am sorry to hear the docetaxel has caused for all your nails to lift and split and appreciate how unpleasant this must be for you.
We have information about skin and nail care during chemotherapy on our website here that may be helpful to read.
In my experience some people find it useful to put nail varnish on their finger nails whereas others find moisturising nails liberally with vaseline or almond oil can also help. Using medical tape to try and hold a nail in place as it is lifting will prevent it from ripping off if caught so this may also be worth a try.
Do let your chemo nurses and doctors know so they can also take a look and suggest things that may help. Unfortunately it is as you say one of the side effects but hopefully things will start improving quickly once treatment finishes, just a matter of finding things that work for you to get you through.
Please get back if you have further questions and you are also welcome to call the nurse helpline on 0808 800 4040, week days from 9-5 if you prefer.
