chemo questions
I'm afraid to start chemo. I don't want to loose all my hair. Ok, I'm already bald, but still...
Once diagnosed is chemotherapy typically the first course of action to treat the disease or vary case by case?
How do i pick a chemo?
Hi
! Your treatment choices are going to be the result of discussions between you and your doctor. There are a lot of aspects to consider, but ultimately it is your choice what treatment you choose. But, you can find some really good information on this site and others. Here is an article about some of the various treatments for lung cancer; you have a lot more options these days than just chemo: https://lungcancer.net/treatment/. And here is a page that discusses some of the different types of chemotherapy: https://lungcancer.net/medications/chemotherapy/ Also, ask your doctor about having your cancer tested for specific mutations. There are a number of very successful targeted therapies these days. To learn more about specific questions you should ask your doctor, check out http://www.dontguesstest.org/
I hope this information is helpful. We can't give any specific medical advice on this forum, but if you have other questions, we will do our best to help you find the information you need to make an informed decision. Let us know how we can help!
Kimberly – LungCancer.net site moderator
Hi BrianGGG!
Did you know that you don't always lose your hair with chemo? It depends on the type of chemo, and the dosage. You can ask your doctor about it. But even if you do, everyone knows Bald is Beautiful!!! Hope you come back and post more about your treatment experiences.
Kimberly - LungCancer.net site moderatorhas anyone used taxotere? If so, what side affects do you have. I have had terrible itch and rash. Onc nor derm can figure out what to do. Any suggestions welcome. thank you.
Hi tiki22,
I am so sorry to hear about your itch and rash; several treatments for lung cancer can cause changes to the skin or create rashes on the skin. Chemotherapy targets fast growing cells, which includes skin and nail cells. Skin can peel and/or become dry, itchy and/or red, and some patients develop a rash. Others experience sensitivity to sunlight, increasing the risk of sunburn. At the bottom of this article are some options to try that may be able to help, in addition to any suggestions from your oncologist or dermatologist: https://lungcancer.net/treatment-side-effects-skin-rashes/# Please do keep us updated - thinking of you!
Best,
Margot, LungCancer.net Team
