scalp driving me nuts

Brenda_D · 01-06-2008, 12:34 PM

My scalp hurt quite a bit when my hair started falling out, about 15 days after starting chemo (AC).
I think it's pretty common. It's one of those things we endure.

KellyA · 01-06-2008, 12:42 PM

Hi there,
I had a very sore (itchy to start) scalp when I started chemo. It began to bother me when my hair was getting ready to fall out and then stayed that way for a few weeks. After that it was fine. It was so uncomfortable, I couldn't brush or even wash my hair and it bothered me to have anything touch it at all. I think your discomfort will ease up soon.

Love, Kelly

mimiflower07 · 01-06-2008, 04:01 PM

thanks..i was thinking that this was very common but you never know!
Kelly your photo is so beautiful you look great and happy. I really wish this was something none of us would have to endure...
suzanne

KellyA · 01-06-2008, 04:29 PM

Suzanne,
Thank you very much for your sweet pic comment. Oh, how I wish this was something that no one had to endure. It is such a huge mountain to climb, and seems so overwhelming at times, especially in the beginning. But over time, the most beautiful thing happens, and life takes a very unexpected turn... in reflection, what a gift this experience has been, and the joy in life that may have not always been there, or at least was taken for granted before bc, has given me an outlook on life that I never would have had.

Hang in there- time will pass, things will get better, and you will find out so many wonderful things about yourself that you didn't know before. This time next year you will have a head of new hair, and a whole new outlook.

P.S.- Cold compresses worked wonders for my scalp. My hubby would wet and freeze a washcloth for me (so there was no hard ice against my head). I had so many washclothes and popsicles (helped with my nausea) in the freezer, there was no room for any food!!!!!

Love, Kelly

Mary Jo · 01-06-2008, 04:43 PM

Hi Suzanne,

You are right......it would be nice if this was something none of us had to endure BUT listen to Kelly. She is a wise woman. This "journey" you are embarking on is tough. Way beyond words. But, that being said, I repeat what Kelly said and know that you will get through this like we did. And, also I agree with what she said in that what you will learn and gain from your experience will go beyond anything you could imagine. Yes, again, Kelly is right in her saying "what a gift this experience has been." (man that Kelly is a smart cookie

) Of course this all takes time. Afterall, it's a journey - a long, hard one. Things will be learned each step of the way and you will be amazed at how differently you will look at life and all it's blessings. Sending hugs and love to you "sister."

Also hoping the "prickly" head leaves you soon. It didn't last just too long for me. Just a few days before the hair came out and maybe a week or two past that.

Peace to you friend,

Mary Jo

sassy · 01-06-2008, 05:13 PM

Suzanne,

I have to agree with Kelly and Mary Jo, this is a tough journey and one I would not have willingly started nor wished on anyone. However, as with anything in life, one must look at the positive of any situation and this one has definitely had a positive side for me.

I discovered how many caring friends and family members that I truly have. So many prayers, so much help, so many kind gestures: I might not have had the opportunity to experience all this otherwise. As Kelly said, life takes on a whole new meaning and your appreciation of it grows tremendously.

I found that rubbing coco butter on my head helped the itching prickly feeling. As a matter of fact, I eventually rubbed it on my whole body--it just seemed to make me feel more comfortable. I also found that wearing scarves and hats was more comfortable than wearing my wig. I only wore my wig for other people--when I thought that others would be more comfortable with my wig than with a hat or scarf. I was perfectly comfortable anywhere in just a hat or scarf, and went bald at home. My sons' friends quickly became comfortable with my baldness!

Although it may seem endless now, this will pass and you will grow back beautiful hair.

My best wishes to you,