It’s all a matter of degree.
My side effects from the second round of chemotherapy are the exact same side effects as Round One — constant stomach cramps, bloating, and fatigue — only slightly less so. Less so, as in: still cramping and bloating so much that eating and drinking are almost impossible, but not in as much pain. Less so, as in: still sleeping 13-16 hours a day, but not as crashingly tired when I’m awake. Less so, as in: still feeling crappy, but not as crappy.
I’m not sure if it’s the constant ingestion of OTC meds or my body making peace with its poisons, but less so is good.
More annoying than dangerous, my weakened immune system has excavated allergies I never knew I had. Despite a daily Loratadine (Claritin) pill, my nose runs, my eyes water and eyelids swell up more than not. When my teariness approaches the drip level of a badly leaking faucet, I take Benadryl as well later in the day, but that doesn’t seem to help, either.
I’m 23% through my heavy chemo regimen, and Ms. Math Geek is counting down.