I did interferon for a full year. I remember the first four weeks of infusion. It was not fun! I lost a lot of weight that first four weeks. I just tried to find something that tasted okay each day. Some days it was one thing and then it didn't taste good anymore. Just try to each something that sounds good and it may be something different everyday. You also need to drink lots of water or anything that you can get down. No question that it is hard, but it is worth it. My oncologist told me I might not see another Christmas if I didn't do the interferon. Since then I have had three Christmases with my family. Definitely worth it to me. I wish you the best!
- laurimcnally
- Brownsburg, IN
- Member Since Feb 2012
Their Diagnoses (1)
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- Patient: Skin Cancer - Melanoma
- Patient Info: Currently in active treatment (initial surgery, receiving chemo rounds/radiation), Diagnosed: over 6 years ago, Female, Age: 53
- View this journey (1 Experience)
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laurimcnally started following
about 6 years ago -
laurimcnally asked a questionSkin Cancer - Melanoma
I am currently on inteferon therapy. On for 1 week. I am not eating, am weak all the time & can't sleep.
5 answers-
ScrappysWife
Don't give up yet - it does get better (or more normal). I'm assuming you are doing the infusions, and they will knock you out. Don't bother doing anything for the month. You need your rest. The first month is the worst for many (although food will taste awful all year). You can get through this.
Just an FYI, if you are still feeling extreme fatigue, ask your onc to check your thyroid (it's a blood test). Interferon has been known to cause problems with it, usually during the maintenance stage (self-injections). They sometimes prescribe Rittalin as well for tiredness.
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