Heads Up on Sinus and Ear Issues!

[Donna]

Dear Amazing Group,

I had been assuming my sinus problems and ear problems were side effects of the chemotherapy based on what I read. These are not listed as side effects that are typical, but anecdotally it seemed everyone was experiencing them. My oncologist got me an appointment with an amazing Ear Nose and Throat specialist and it turns out I have a massive sinus infection that is also affecting my hearing.

Since I am getting Neulasta this type of infection isn't sending me to the hospital like it did my mother 14 years ago, and I was assuming it was just a side effect. Now I am being treated with antibiotics and steroids and my nasal problems are already better after only three days.

Maybe it's worth it to check for sinus infections and not assume it's just a side effect. I saw the CT scans of my head and it was really an eye opener! If my oncologist hadn't followed up on my noting in passing these atypical symptoms, I would still be putting up with this misery unnecessarily. It could just be that what we are taking is predisposing us to sinus infections and we are accepting this as a side effect instead of a separate issue.

Check it out! I'm glad I did. I have a great oncologist known for her attention to detail beyond the norm.

Best luck to all of you and have a great day!

Donna