Monday, March 31, 2008

Radiation effects

The first week of whole brain radiation is over and I'm starting on my second week. Since I "breezed" through chemo, I was hoping that radiation would be easy as well. Sadly, it is much more difficult than I had anticipated. The nausea is what plagues me the most. It's fairly "low-grade" - if it can be measured by degrees. But to me, any kind of nausea is semi debilitating. I somehow find it hard to function at a normal level when my body is constantly hinting that vomit lies just below a shallow surface. The doctor was also surprised by this symptom since he claims he's giving me a low dose and most patients don't have the problem at this level. Lucky me! Medication has mostly controlled the issue.

Fatigue is the other problem. It's not been too bad except on occasion - but when it hits, it hits hard. I actually fell asleep while on the phone with a friend! (I'm talking sound asleep with dreams and everything!) A bit embarrassing to be wakened by my phone (I had it on speaker) asking me if I was still there. Thankfully my friend was very understanding about it. But I wouldn't recommend it as a friendship builder.

Six down, nine to go...

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

love to you!

Lunde Family said...

Yvonne,
I love you. In the midst of the nausea please keep focused on Jesus! He is your Comforter and Healer.
My daily prayers,
Becky

Anonymous said...

Yvonne,
I finally figured out how to send a comment--I'm a computer dummy.

I just want you to know that Tine and I are praying for you. I have a sister who has recently gone through the same thing. No fun.
We love you,
Jan Hardeman

Anonymous said...

Good words.