When Mr. Fixit had his last appointment with the oncologist, he complained of a problem with his fingertips. He described it as numbness, but he indicated that there is pain involved working with his fingers, i.e., buttoning his shirt or opening jars. The doctor prescribed a new medication for the problem. Apparently, it’s a side effect of his cancer medication.
He took the medicine for a few days but then developed a rash on his legs similar to that he had when he began the oral cancer drug. I suggested that he stop the medication because that was the only new thing brought in. I told him he had to decide which was worse, the numbness or the rash. He said the rash was worse.
Yesterday I called the office because even though he hadn’t taken the new medicine for a few days the rash was worse. It now covers almost his whole body and was a very angry red. He said it itches when the rash first appears. The nurse suggested that he take Benadryl, Claritin, and Zantac.
After we arrived at the pharmacy, I realized that Zantac is used for heartburn. I thought maybe I made a mistake, and she had actually said “Zyrtec.” I called to check and she said that Zantac was the right one. Who knew heartburn medication could be used to treat allergic reactions? Not me, that’s for sure.
Today the rash is still there, but it does look better. It’s not as red as it was.
