Wishing you the best of luck for your R-CHOP treatment next week I hope that it all goes well for you and that you won't suffer any significant side effects. Side effects will vary from one person to another but I thought I would mention our page on R-CHOP which includes a list of side effects you may encounter.
I am sorry to hear that the prednisone is making you feel very weak and lethargic. If this side effect carries on, it might be worth mentioning it to your medical team and seeing whether they can make some adjustments or suggest an alternative or if they have any tips to help minimise the side effects.
There are lots of posts here on the Cancer Chat forum where people have shared their experience of this treatment. If you'd like to read through some of them then I'd suggest using the forum search function at the top of the page and searching for the terms "R CHOP" and "R-CHOP". One example is Southcoastdave 's R-CHOP thread which you are welcome to reply to if you wish. As Southcoastdave pointed out in their thread, "everyone reacts differently" but it's always interesting to talk to someone else who has had the same treatment.
I hope that you will hear from others who have had R-Chop before and that they will be happy to share their experience with you.
My R-CHOP Chemo went well; although I did have some side effects. I had a very rapid heart rate one morning, visited my GP and they called an ambulance to take me to A&E - lots of monitoring but nothing serious. A second time, similar problem, I ended up in A&E and spent time in a hospital ward because my blood count was so low. I had 2 bags infused.
Between each of my six, 3 weekly, Chemo sessions I lost 2 kgs!! I've had to put lots of extra holes in my belt otherwise if I breathe in my trousers fall down!! Very embarrassing in a carpark. Because of my decrease immunity I kept getting sore throats but the gargle I was given helped immensely. I have not regained my original weight - this is due to my pre-existing Pancreatitis and the Europe-wide shortage of Pancreatin capsules.
Following Chemo I had 15 session of targeted electron beam radiation. The only side effect was skin damage to my scrotum. Flamazine cream helped with that.
I thought I had discovered a new lump but after a visit to the local Breast Clinic (you get strange looks from all the women in the waiting area!) It's just my 'man boobs' playing up.
My last CT-PET scan was excellent. I'm now awaiting assist from Endocrinology for reduced testosterone levels.
I must praise the xxx Unit at xxx Hospital and the Macmillan Centre at Brighton which has excellent facilities. The walk up the steep slope can be tiring! The café there is excellent with a very good selection of freshly produced food at low prices. The baked potatoes are amazing value. There is also a choice of free donated food for those suffering financially. I can't praise this unit enough.
