TCH side effects:

[danceswithrain]

Terri, these are just the things I am doing. I have to bounce back and forth between the immodium and reglan the first two weeks after chemo. (I was prescribed Reglan before my diagnosis because of something called 'gastroparesis' and have suffered from partial obstructions in my small intestine.)
Prilosec, Nexium or Protonix take several days to take effect after they are started they are not fast acting like Tums or Mylanta. If Ruth is having a constant problem w/heartburn or nausea she should probly stay on them. If it's just a problem sometimes I would try Tums or Mylanta and not the Prilosec.
Fatigue is a tough one. It is the one thing that can really get me down. I also suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia and a variant of Myotonic Dystrophy(Muscular).So I have struggle with fatigue for years. I take Provigil which helps me even before BC. It is still helping even with the chemo but not quite as much. But when your tired to get even a couple of hours of a little energy a day helps my attitude. I also increase my steroids from first two days after chemo to the first week out from chemo.
I suffered some skin problems too. Hand and foot syndrome caused by the taxotere. The Dr. recommended B6 @ 150mg per day. (skin was just peeling off my hands in sheets) That has stopped with the B6. maybe could help her scalp.
I do get a Neulasta shot the day after treatment The side effects (run over by a truck) suck but it has helped the first was the worst, 2nd not as bad, this last one didn't have that effect. RBC has been helped by small frequent healthy meals. (Which is the only way I can eat when I got the 'stomach burn' going.) Lots of broccoli, spinach, dark leafy greens in general, red meat, fruits, nuts, seeds, whole grain bread etc. I eat broccoli steamed or raw w/ranch dressing depending on my tummy. I seem to tolerate vegs better than anything when my stomach is acting up. If Ruth getting a metal taste even after you wash them try soaking them in a little vinegar w/water for a few minutes. (brushing my teeth w/baking soda also helps) Also make sure she's getting a good vit. supplement. I take Oil of Olay w/CQ10(blk and gold box)After years of designing my own and trying several all in one multiples this was the one that worked for me.
also I was at the health food store to get Super Blue Green Alge and instead they turned me on to something called 'Stem Enhance' That I have been very impressed with. (you can google it if your curious.) It has helped me feel better and stay healthier and have more energy.
I get my 4th TCH tomorrow(today?) I think it is getting easier. I have noticed a bit more chemo fog and fatigue this time but I also ended up w/a port infection so some of it may have been that. But overall this last treatment was the easiest yet so you two keep your chin up!
As always please have Ruth check w/herr doctor before she adds anything.
Your both in my thoughts and prayers.
Vicki