NED but not picking up the health/daily headaches.

koikkeril · Super Moderator Joined: 29 Jul 2007 Posts: 334

Does anyone know how long the chemo stays in the body?
My hubby has no evidence of disease, but has daily headaches. The Oncologist has just phoned and said his brain scan is also clear and does not understand why he has these headaches.
My hubby' appetite has not yet come back, neither has his tastebuds. He finds the smell of food puts him off eating.
His last chemo was the beginning of January. He is still taking morphine but only 20mg morning and evening. If you have any ideas for the cause, I thank you to post to me as I can not understand also what the cause could be, only perhaps the chemo?

brainman

koikkeril, it should not take very long for the body to get rid of all of the chemo. However, the damage that is has caused my take a lot longer. After 15 years, I still have some neuropathy to my feet.

I do not know what is causing your husband's headaches. Keep working with his medical team to find the cause and solution for it.

You and your husband continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
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Vee Smith · Moderator Joined: 12 Feb 2006 Posts: 789 Location: UK

Hi koikkeril - Chemo drugs take about 6-12 weeks to clear from the system, and as Brainman says some neuropathy never repairs. However, headaches are often related to muscular tension in the shoulders and neck. It is worth seeing if a little massage and relaxation helps. People are very often totally unaware of how they are tensing up in stressful situations.

koikkeril · Super Moderator Joined: 29 Jul 2007 Posts: 334

Thanks Vee, I think perhaps it is tension and hoping it will be resolved with massage. He is also being refered to a Neuropath and as Brainman says the Neuropathy problems can take a long time to repair, perhaps that is there also, but hoping not!
Do you know what would affect his taste buds and smell? Could this be a neuropathic problem or because the Chemo' last date was beg January and not quiet 12 weeks? Thanks again.

Vee Smith · Moderator Joined: 12 Feb 2006 Posts: 789 Location: UK

Very likely. It was about 6 months before I could taste some foods properly. Tiresome, but it does clear up in the end.

Also, it is possible the morphine is affecting things.

koikkeril · Super Moderator Joined: 29 Jul 2007 Posts: 334

I have discussed with him its possibly morphine. He is scared to take the next step to reduce 10mg, but tomorrow morning he is giving it a go! He is scared because of pain and withdrawal symptoms. Can you tell me, were you on morphine as well? He is on long acting Skenan L.P. He hates the morphine and would much prefer another pain killer which does not give the consipation and a possible heart problem. Can you advice on a good pain killer he could ask his G.P? Much appreciated for your advice, regards and Gods Blessing.

Vee Smith · Moderator Joined: 12 Feb 2006 Posts: 789 Location: UK

Sorry, no - I haven't needed such strong painkillers. But I have seen morphine's use and effect at second hand and there is no doubt it can do odd things to the body. So long as he is eating a reasonable diet, I wouldn't worry too much about altered taste for now.

As to alternative painkillers, I am sure someone else will have suggestions about this.

You could also look into acupuncture which has had remarkable results in controlling pain.

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