Fluid around the heart???

[Kristin]

My mom just found out that she has fluid around her heart. I think they will need to drain it. Has anyone else gone through this as another lovely side effect of chemo??? Thanks for the info.
Kristin

[Pam P]

After I was on taxotere I developed pleural effusions around the lungs & had to have them drained. I also developed a small pericardial effusion - around the heart. I guess it was/is very minor, so they've not done anything about it.

[Kristin]

Thanks Pam,

My mom has also had pleural effusions drained too, and now this heart thing. We are going to see the cardiologist tomorrow so I'm sure she'll let us know what to do. I'm hoping she doesn't need it drained, she has gone through so much in stupid side effects. It's bad enough you have to go through chemo but then to have to stop because of fluid retention or hand and foot syndrome, it's not fair!!!! She is a trooper though, so hopefully we will have good news tomorrow!!!
Kristin

[MGordon]

Lisa had plural effusion as well and the doctors were able treat her with a dieuretic (sp?) instead of any surgery. Has your Mom's onc. considered this?

Mel (Spouse of Lisa)

[Kristin]

She did take a dieuretic but only for a short time because it interfers with her cumadin levels.