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Chemo starting soon for breast cancer. So worried about the side effects and what to expect

CarolDel
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Hi

I am recently diagnosed with breast cancer and am due to start chemo in a couple of weeks. I am really worried about the side effects and what to expect.

I didn't realise there were different types of Chemo.

Yours anxiously

CarolDel

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    Hi CarolDel and a very warm welcome to Cancer Chat, 

    There can be a lot to take in after being diagnosed with breast cancer  and the fear of the unknown that goes with starting chemotherapy treatment is very common. It is normal to worry too about the side effects you might get and unfortunately it is impossible to predict what these might be until you start treatment as they will vary from person to person. However, it is worth being prepared and knowing what to expect. You will find information on our website on chemotherapy for breast cancer which will talk you through all the steps involved and we also have an in-depth section on side effects of chemotherapy. 

    If you have any questions don't hesitate to get in touch with our cancer nurses on this free number 0808 800 4040 - their helpline is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and they will be very happy to answer questions you might have about breast cancer and chemotherapy or indeed anything else you might want to ask about. 

    I also hope that you will hear from other members of our community who have had breast cancer and chemotherapy before or who have, like you, been recently diagnosed and are waiting to start chemotherapy. It's always nice to hear from others who have been through all this before and to gain insights based on their personal stories and experiences. 

    Wishing you the best of luck with the start of your treatment. It won't be too long now until treatment starts and I hope that it all goes smoothly for you and that you suffer no significant side effects. 

    Best wishes, 

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator 

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    Hi  

    Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I had breast cancer in 2021 and went through chemo afterwards then further treatment. Is there a specific side effect you are concerned about? As you say there are different chemo therapies that have different side effects. Although saying that I met people on the same chemo as me at the time and we had different side effects. If you have any questions in particular I’m happy to answer if I’m able to. 

  • Offline in reply to rmscj

    Hi

    I am not sure what I am worried about in particular, just all of it. Am worried about the nausea and not being able to function well. I am preparing as best I can in terms of buying soft foods like cup of soups, a wig etc but am unsure as to what to expect. I have appointments coming up and the care team will be able to answer most of my questions won't they.

    Thank you for your reply

    Carol

    X

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Lucie

    Thank you Lucie.

    I start on November 14

    Many thanks

    Carol

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