I had an epiphany yesterday. Each cycle I went through, I had no expectations from myself to do much of anything during weeks 1 and 2 post-infusion. Except for this last cycle. Apparently I had all the expectations for myself going into this one. So I reset. This Monday will be the start of my 3rd week and even then, I'll give myself more grace that I have been.
Of course, this led me to do some research. Despite being done with chemo on May 13th, the ongoing effects of chemo will continue with me for some time. Here are some timelines courtesy of the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center:
Low Blood Counts: After your last dose of chemotherapy, your white blood cell count will go down. It should start to go back to normal about a month after your last treatment. Your red blood cell count may also go down, but it should go back to normal around the same time.
Hair Loss: If you lost your hair, you should start to see it grow back 14 to 21 days after your last chemotherapy treatment. The amount of time it takes to grow back is different for everyone. When your hair grows back, it may be a different color or texture. These changes are normal. Over time, most people’s hair goes back to its original color and texture, but some people may have long-term changes.
Neuropathy: Some chemotherapy medications can cause neuropathy (numbness or tingling in your hands and feet). It may get worse after you have your last chemotherapy treatment. Most people notice that their neuropathy gets better 2 to 4 months after chemotherapy, but it can take up to 1 year to fully go away. For some people, it never completely goes away.
Nausea, Vomiting, and Taste Changes: You may experience nausea (feeling like you might throw up) and vomiting (throwing up) after your last chemotherapy treatment. It should go away in 2 to 3 weeks.
Your appetite may continue to be affected due to taste changes you may have experienced during your treatment. Your taste should go back to normal 1 to 2 months after chemotherapy.
Fatigue: Your fatigue (feeling more tired or weak than usual) will get better over time. For some people, energy levels may return to normal within 6–12 months, but it can take longer for those who received intensive treatments like stem cell or bone marrow transplants. You may have lost some muscle and strength during your treatment and will need to build it up again slowly. Walking or doing another form of light exercise each day will help with this.
"Chemo Brain" and Stress: Many people experience mental changes after chemotherapy treatment. This is sometimes called “chemo brain.” You may have problems such as poor memory, trouble finding words, difficulty focusing. This can affect parts of your life, including caring for your family and managing your job. Try to avoid having goals for yourself that are too high. This can add to your stress level and frustration. Most people say it takes 6 to 12 months after they finish chemotherapy before they truly feel like themselves again.
Fear of Cancer Coming Back: After treatment, many people might be afraid that their cancer will come back (recurrence). You may become concerned about new symptoms you’re having and wonder if they’re related to breast cancer.
I found this article and this infographic for more detailed information:
What are your favorite foods these days?
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