Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Ok..guess it is a known issue.
Found this..
http://www.scribd.com/doc/28238758/P...-dexamethasone

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

I am so sorry to hear you have unpleasant side effects. Gemzar can contribute to skin rash. If what your oncologist is offering you does not work you might want to see a good dermatologist who is familiar with the skin issues cancer patients have.
I was just reading about low B12 levels. Low B12 can weaken skin cells. Weakened skin cells can be affected by various kinds of skin issues, including side effects from medicines in addition to other things. I never knew that before. Do you want to have a blood test for B12? If yours is low you might want to ask for shots or supplements. Hydrocortisone cream which is available over the counter might be able to reduce itchy skin or edema. Please discuss any things you decide to try with your doctor.
I hope you get some relief soon. Take good care of yourself. I am keeping my fingers crossed and hope you will be back to normal soon.

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

I forgot to add the Gemzar information website which should also include information about side effects and/or safety information.
www.gemzar.com
I wonder if eating foods that are good for the skin (with vitamin A and C for example)might help your skin cope with rash related side effects?
Take care.

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Your replies brought tears to my eyes and I feel so encouraged by your thoughts and suggestions. I am not feeling much better, still incredibly weak, but have hopes that this coming week we can find some answers from the oncologist. Just being able to reach out to each other means so much, and I treasure all you have written, the encouragements as well as timely suggestions. It is good to know there are still options available to us in this battle. I am so blessed to have a wonderful husband and a very large family. I have to get better and stay around, as most of our 32 grandchildren are now married and having children. We have 36 greats now, with 7 more due by summer of this year. I have to stay around to meet them all! (You may remember we put two families together 30 years ago). I have been blessed in so many ways, and your friendships mean so much. I will let you know what transpires with the chemo. Thank you again, and God bless you. Hugs, TriciaK

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Thanks for checking back in Tricia. Sorry you are not feeling well, I hope this coming week will find fresh answers for you. Keep up that fighting spirit!!

all the best
caya

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Tricia,
I'm glad to see that despite this setback your spirit seems unaffected. Take good care and I hope you start feeling better.

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Tricia,

You are one of my heroes. May God grant you the blessing of meeting all your new greats - coming from you, they sure are great! :)

Sending you love,

Marcia

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Tricia,

Glad to hear from you. Hope you are feeling better.

Amelia

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Tricia,

You have a dynasty! Sending you good vibes that you'll feel better soon.

Joan

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Hi Tricia

You have a great attitude so keep fighting and I send you warm sunshine from Perth. Hope to hear good news very soon.

Best wishes

Diane

Re: Report on TriciaK
 

Tricia,
Thanks for keeping us in the loop. Sending prayers and strength from my heart to yours...
Flori