How to cope with nail loss after having docetaxel chemo

Hi,

I am looking for some advice. I finished chemotherapy in November, Since I’ve had docetaxel I knew nail problems could be an issue but thought I had dodged it! Around January I noticed my nails starting to slightly lift at the top . Although they are growing out well I’ve just loss my first one. The rest are still attached at the bottom but lifted at the top and could go at any moment. I’m really unsure of how to look after the one I’ve lost? A good amount of new nail seems to be there not fully to the top but not a million miles away. Do I need to keep it covered or should I let the air get to it? I’m worried about infection but there doesn’t  seem to be any open areas. It didn’t hurt when it came off and it’s not sore as such just more sensitive at the top when something touches it . Any advice would be greatly appreciated. 

  • I'm sorry to hear about the issues you've been having with your nails since finishing docetaxel last year Lottie.

    Quite a few of our members have found themselves in a similar situation so hopefully some of them will stop by soon to share their experiences and advice, but if you'd like to have a chat with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful and will do all they can to help.

    If you haven't done so already, make sure you speak to your medical team and/or GP about this as well as they will ultimately be in the best position to advise.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator