Hi JoyEv_, 

I am sorry you have had these debilitating side effects from chemotherapy causing severe balance issues as a result of pemetrexed and pembrolizumab. I think it's really important that you see the oncologist as soon as possible and I am glad that this has been arranged for you and I hope that you won't have to wait long to see them especially since your treatment has been suspended. The oncologist will be able to tell you whether these severe balance issues are definitely a side effect of the chemotherapy and they will hopefully have suggestions to make things better for you. 

I hope that things will improve for you quickly and that you will hear from other members of our community who have had this before and that they will tell you more about how they coped and how they managed these side effects. 

Best wishes, 

Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

Hi I have been having Pembro. Since December. The last dose, about 4 weeks ago has had a worse effect than previously. I feel just worn out most of the time, have brain fog(not thinking clearly, and a very dry mouth most of the time.feeling pretty useless and wondering how long I will feel as bad as this.  Wondering whether it’s worth continuing.

It really depends on if your getting positive results from it in has your tumours reduced? I've been fortunate in having good results so far. The fatigue is tough I know & maybe try sugar free gum for mouth. Maybe ask oncologist if your dose can be reduced to help? 

It's such a tough road I know but I wish you best wishes in your progress

Hi Tony,

You can get Salvix spray and pastilles to help with the dry mouth. Both are available on prescription. I didn't find the pastilles much use, but the spray does help for a short while.

Jolamine