[Breezietn]

I finsihed chemo for colon cancer 6 years ago. Since then, I often break out in patches of hives. Also have had severe cases of poison ivy, had reactions to pierced earrings, and most recently, color rinse for hair. None of these caused problems before..not even poison ivy. Could the chemo have caused a long term decrease in the function of the immune syatem?

[11Bravo]

the immuno-suppressive side effects your probably experiencing is a result of the non-selective nature of the chemotherapy for Colen Cancer. But I hope that you reported theses things to your doctor ASAP! God Bless you and stay positive!

[itsme1972]

Hello Breezietn,I noticed that you posted this while ago,have you found the reason for your hives? I was in a similar situation except mine was reversed.Prior to being diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2006,I broke out in hives constantly.Several times me throat swelled shut and I thought I was a goner.This went on for around 2 years so I made an appointment for allergy testing.I was told I was allergic to 22 very common foods(potatoes,cabbage,corn,etc) and that I was severely allergic to almonds,a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios sent me to the ER.I lived on Benadryl and even lost a few jobs because of it.The weird thing is after the cancer all my allergies are gone.The only explanation I could think of was that my immune system was non existant and that's when the cancer struck.I hope you have found a solution because I know firsthand,it will drive ya batty.