I Just started CHEMO on bladder cancer

Yesterday I think I had a panic attack. I went to emergency , had everything checked. I was fine. It started with a problem breathing. Now I seem OK. Anyone else have this happen?

If this was your very first chemo, you have to be prepared for some unusual sensations. In my case, the side effect came in with a slam on the third day after my first infusion.

I hope that your doctor has explained to you what some of the side effects are. You won't get every single one, and your side effects will no doubt differ from other people's.

There are some very good web sites that explain the side effects and what you can do to alleviate them. Try this one:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bladder-cancer/DS00177

was Taxol, but they give you premeds first. Turns out the premends, especially the Decadron, was making me SOB. I finally got them to d/c the Benadryl entirely and decrease the Decadron for the other treatments and the sensation went away.

For you, it could be the premeds or the chemo or you could have really had a panic attack. That first chemo is extremely stressful and even though you get more used to it over time, it's still no picnic. Just wait till your last one - you'll be doing the happy dance for sure.

Best wishes to you for a complete, trouble free, low stress recovery.:hug:

No one told me of any effects, supposedly bladder CHEMO is not as bad as other types of cancer CHEMO. I will ask on the next treatment. Again that you all for responding.

NO ONE told you about chemotherapy side effects??!!!

That is absolutely unbelievable. Your doctor needs either a slap upside the head, or a malpractice suit.

How are you feeling now? By the way...I think that was a panic attack and I can't blame you. You were scared and had no support or information. I think I would have had one too! :hug:

Agree with the previous poster, your first chemo is very stressful. Depending on which one you're taking, it may take a few days before you feel the effects.

Panic attacks are common. Try to do some deep breathing and relaxation exercises. If you want to PM me, I can mail you some relaxation tapes developed for patients going through chemo. They really helped me a lot by bringing down anxiety levels. Also, unless your doc has instructed you otherwise, take time to go out, shop, see a play or concert, do all the things you want to do - it helps take your mind off it. Try to keep your life as normal as possible when you can.

Also, let your doc know immediately if you have any nausea or other side effects. There are plenty of really good anti-nausea meds available, sometimes you have to try a couple before you find the one that works best for you. :hug:

We haven't heard from you since this post. Please let us know how you fare.:hug:

Been wondering about you!

Its not an unusual reaction at all, don't feel bad. First chemo experience can be very, very stressful. Don't be afraid to ask your doctor about some type of anti-anxiety meds.