Side Effects of Chemo
Unseen Side Effects
I have a lot of people who think I'm so amazing about how I'm handling the chemo/cancer.
Let me just tell you, it is not me, BUT CHRIST THROUGH ME!!
For those who will walk in my shoes someday, I thought I'd fill you in about the unseen side effects. Most people are amazed that I always seem to have a smile on my face...I don't always. I try too, but some days/times it is impossible.
Here are some of the side effects that I experience each day, that don't show on the outside, from head to toe:
headaches
hair loss (not complete, but seems like a lot some days)
watery eyes
nose bleeds
runny nose
mouth sores/ulcers
tongue sores/ulcers
loss of taste
dry mouth
receding gums
loss of voice
dry cough
loss of breath
heartburn/acid reflux
dry/cracked skin
skin flushing
back pain
low blood (red and white) counts
extreme fatigue
muscle weakness
muscle tremors
nausea
severe abdominal pain
night sweats
chills
short term memory loss
severe mood swings
compromised immune system
I don't always have these at one time, but sometimes there seems to be many side effects going on at the same time. The side effects are bad the day of, and the day after chemo. Mostly they take turns popping up.
These side effects don't include what I get when I receive my "bone shot pain" (Avastin) to boost the red/white cells, or the Iron IV infusion. The above are daily side effects from the ongoing chemo.