What I Learned from My First Chemotherapy Session

Do not index

The first chemotherapy session is a significant experience for anyone undergoing cancer treatment. It marks the beginning of a journey to fight and kill cancer cells. For me, this journey began with a diagnosis of stage IV rectal cancer. My treatment plan included a series of chemotherapy treatments designed to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors. This initial treatment session was both daunting and hopeful, as it was the first step in a long and challenging process to treat cancer and improve my health.

Preparing for My First Chemotherapy Session

Getting ready for my first chemotherapy session involved a lot of mental and physical preparation. Understanding what was ahead helped me feel more in control and prepared to face the challenge.

The emotional buildup before the first session was intense. I felt a mix of fear, uncertainty, and hope. I spent time talking to my family and friends about my feelings, which helped ease some of the anxiety. I also researched what to expect during the session, learning about chemotherapy drugs and how they work to kill cancer cells. This knowledge made the process seem less scary. Additionally, I joined a support group where others shared their experiences, which provided me with comfort and practical advice.

Physically, preparing for the session was just as important. I focused on maintaining a healthy diet, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and proteins to keep my body strong. Staying hydrated was crucial, so I drank lots of water throughout the day. Rest was another critical factor; I made sure to get plenty of sleep in the days leading up to the treatment. These steps helped my body be in the best possible condition to handle the chemotherapy drugs and the side effects that might come with them. By taking these measures, I felt more ready to face my first chemotherapy session.

The Day of the First Session

Arriving at the hospital was a surreal experience. The oncology center was bustling with activity, yet there was a sense of calm among the staff. They greeted me warmly and guided me through the initial setup. I was shown to a comfortable chair in a room with other patients receiving their treatments. A nurse explained the process and what to expect, then inserted an IV line into my arm. This line would deliver the chemotherapy drugs directly into my bloodstream to target the cancer cells.

For the first chemotherapy treatment, oncologists usually recommend you stay in the hospital to monitor your response to the chemotherapy. My oncologist also did a blood test to check whether my white blood cells and hemoglobin were within the normal range, and if they were too low, chemotherapy could not be given. The oncologist also emphasized that continued chemotherapy may result in lower white blood cell and hemoglobin counts, so it is important to pay attention to my diet and consume more protein so that my body can continue to receive the treatment.

In addition, patients who have just started treatment are unfamiliar with the entire process, so the hospital will assign an oncology case manager to each patient. Patients or their families can contact their personal oncology case manager with any questions about their treatment for ease of consultation.

Receiving chemotherapy over 48 hours was a long process. The chemo drugs were administered through the IV at a controlled pace. I had a portable pump that allowed the treatment to continue even when I left the hospital. This meant I could go home with the pump and return after 48 hours to have it removed. The nurses checked on me frequently to monitor my reaction and ensure I was comfortable. They provided medication to help manage any immediate side effects and answered my questions.

How Did I Feel During the Session?

Physically, the sensations during the session varied. In fact, most of the side effects of chemotherapy appear gradually after the third and fourth treatments. As the number of treatments increases, so does the intensity of the side effects. There were no significant side effects after the first treatment, and I remember that after the first treatment, my body felt weak and tired, but other than that, I was fine.

Immediate Side Effects:

Fatigue: Almost immediately, I began to feel very tired, as if my energy was being drained.

Nausea: During the first chemotherapy treatments, I experienced mild nausea. I was given anti-nausea, anti-vomiting, and anti-gas injections before each of my chemotherapy treatments began.

Metallic Taste: A strange metallic taste developed in my mouth, affecting how food and drinks tasted.

Cold Sensitivity: My hands and feet became unusually sensitive to cold, a common side effect of some chemotherapy drugs.

Muscle Aches: I experienced mild muscle aches, which felt like a lingering flu.

Emotional Responses and Coping Strategies:

Anxiety: I felt a wave of anxiety at the start, but deep breathing exercises helped calm my nerves.

Hope: Despite the discomfort, I felt a sense of hope, knowing this was a step towards destroying cancer cells.

Loneliness: Being surrounded by other patients was comforting, but there were moments of loneliness. Talking to nurses and reading inspiring stories helped.

Support: Staying connected with my family via texts and calls during the session provided emotional support and distraction.

What Side Effects Did I Experience?

Experiencing side effects from chemotherapy was a challenging part of the treatment.

Increase in Nausea and Vomiting: These were the most immediate side effects despite the anti-nausea medications. However, these became stronger as my chemotherapy sessions increased. I spent money on the anti-emetic drug Aprepitant, but the one that worked better for me was the Sancuso skin patch. It was more effective, but it was also very expensive.

Loss of Appetite: Food became unappealing, and I struggled to eat regular meals, relying more on small, frequent snacks.

Changes in Taste: Everything tasted different, often metallic or bland, making it hard to enjoy eating.

Weakness and Fatigue: The fatigue was sometimes overwhelming, exhausting even simple tasks. Resting frequently and conserving my energy became crucial.

Mouth Sores: I developed painful sores in my mouth, which made eating and drinking even more difficult.

These side effects were tough, but knowing they were part of the process of treating cancer and fighting the fast-growing cancer cells helped me endure them. I worked closely with my healthcare team to manage these side effects and adjust my treatment plan as needed.

How Did I Manage These Side Effects?

Using prescribed medications to control nausea was one of the first steps. My oncologist prescribed anti-nausea drugs that I took before and after my chemotherapy sessions. These medications significantly reduced the intensity of my nausea and helped prevent vomiting. It was essential to take these medications as directed and keep a regular schedule to stay ahead of the symptoms. I also found that small, frequent meals and green tea helped soothe my stomach.

Another key strategy was to adjust my diet to accommodate changes in taste and appetite. Since many foods tasted metallic or bland, I experimented with different flavors and textures to find what was more palatable. I mainly focused on nutrient-dense snacks to ensure I got enough calories and nutrients even when I couldn't eat full meals. Staying hydrated with water and herbal teas was also vital in managing my overall well-being.

Another side effect is that the mucous membranes of my mouth and intestines became damaged after several chemo treatments, resulting in ulcers. So, my healthcare team recommended protein and glutamine supplements to repair my mucous membranes.

Emotional and Mental Adjustments

Talking to family and friends for support was one of my main coping strategies. Sharing my fears, hopes, and experiences with loved ones gave me tremendous relief. Their encouragement and understanding made a huge difference in my ability to stay positive. Regular conversations, whether in person, over the phone, or through messages, helped me feel connected and less isolated during treatment.

Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques to manage stress was another vital aspect of my emotional adjustment. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and guided imagery helped calm my mind and reduce anxiety. Setting aside time each day to focus on these practices provided a mental break from the stress of treatment. Keeping a journal to express my thoughts and emotions was therapeutic and helped me process my experiences.

Learning to Adapt

Recognizing how my body reacted to chemotherapy involved paying close attention to the physical changes and symptoms I experienced. I kept a detailed log of my side effects, noting their onset, duration, and intensity. This information was valuable for my medical team in adjusting my treatment plan and for me to anticipate and manage these effects better in future sessions.

Understanding the importance of listening to my body's signals was a critical lesson. I learned to rest when I felt fatigued and not to push myself too hard. Staying attuned to my body's needs helped me avoid overexertion and manage my energy levels more effectively. By being mindful of these signals, I could take proactive steps to care for myself and support my recovery.

Developing a Routine

Creating a daily routine to manage side effects and maintain strength involved setting consistent meal times, hydration, rest, and activities. This routine provided a sense of normalcy and control amidst the uncertainty of treatment. I scheduled time for relaxation and hobbies that I enjoyed, which helped keep my spirits up.

Regular Hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support my body's recovery.

Balanced Diet: Focusing on nutrient-dense foods to provide the energy and nutrients my body needed.

Gentle Exercise: Incorporating light exercises (Zone 2) to maintain physical strength and reduce fatigue.

Adequate Rest: Ensuring I got enough sleep each night and took naps when needed to combat fatigue.

Medication Management: Keeping a schedule for taking prescribed medications to manage side effects effectively.

Key Takeaways from My First Chemotherapy Session

One crucial lesson was the importance of preparation and having a support system. Mentally preparing myself by researching the chemotherapy process and talking to my medical team gave me a clearer understanding of what to expect. Physically preparing by maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of rest ensured my body was ready for the treatment. Equally important was the support system I had in place. Family, friends, and support groups provided emotional strength and practical help, making a huge difference in managing the stress and anxiety of my first session.

Another key takeaway was learning how to manage and adapt to side effects. By listening to my body and using prescribed medications, I was able to control nausea and other immediate side effects. Adjusting my diet to accommodate changes in taste and appetite helped me maintain my strength. Additionally, monitoring my health with technology, such as using apps to track symptoms and medication schedules, proved invaluable. Keeping detailed records of my reactions allowed my medical team to adjust my treatment plan as needed and ensured I was proactively addressing any issues.

Advice for Others For Their First Chemotherapy Session

My advice for anyone preparing for their first chemotherapy session is to educate yourself about the process and create a strong support network. Talk to your healthcare team, ask questions, and understand what to expect. Prepare your body with a healthy diet, hydration, and rest. During the session, stay connected with loved ones for emotional support. Use tools like symptom-tracking apps to monitor your health and communicate with your medical team. Remember, it's a challenging journey, but you can navigate it more effectively with preparation and support.

Final Thoughts on My First Chemotherapy Session

My first chemotherapy session was a pivotal moment in my cancer treatment journey. It taught me the importance of preparation, the value of a strong support system, and the need to adapt to and manage side effects. By staying informed and connected, I was able to face this challenge with determination and hope. Each session brings its own lessons, but the experience of the first one laid the foundation for how I would approach the rest of my treatment.

What Did I Learn from My First Chemotherapy Session?