Ok, Now What? 4 Weeks Efudex Arms, Hands And Pain

Hi folks, appreciate the info. on this board, but after searching posts can't find info on healing process and suggestions.  Sunday I finished 28 days of Efudex, 5-FU on both arms and hands, up to t-shirt line, 2 times a day. Now really inflamed, scabs, purple, screaming burning, the works.  Here is a link to recent image:

I do have Betamethasone Dipropionate, steroid cream, for the really painful areas.  Some nurses say use lots of moisturizer or Vaseline, but then the pharmacist said let it "dry up and the scabs heal and clear faster".  Especially painful during the day since I have to wear long sleeve shirts for work.

Also, how many weeks until the unsightliness goes down, really gross to people now - as you can see from the image link above.

 Thanks,

 Whitey

Hi Whitey,

I'm new here too but found what appears to be a main thread, or at least the most postings, 

http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,4537,

Although most postings seem to be 'work in progress' there are a few who came back to provide inspiration.  It seems to be different for each one, some quickly, others a couple of months.  Your photo is surely greusome. 

Best wishes for a swift healing,

Truths 

Have you tried Aquaphor?  Many posters have used it and found it gave them the much needed relief.  My dermatologist recommends it so I bought two large tubs of it.

 Tomorrow is day 5 for me.  Efudex 5% 2x's per day for 14 days-entire face.  I'm already noticing a few red spots between my upper lip and nose and a very slight stinging sensation during my workouts.  11 days and counting...down.

Just remember it will soon be over!   

Thanks for the good suggestions and the link.  Today, 5 days post TX, I showered with Dove sensitive skin unscented, and then used Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula and it seems to be "calming" down the screaming nerves.  I had used Cocoa Butter cream during Aldera TX a few years ago, and it seems to be a good blend.  Keeps the skin surface from tightening/cracking and not too greasy allowing the scabs to "breath".  Just my rambling, but Aquaphor on the arms with all the hair is really uncomfortable to apply and very  greasy for me.  Regards and good luck to all on 5-FU, it really is a strong drug, but worth it.  My dermo kept saying to compy with regiment and I would be grateful.  Hope so.  Whitey