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Bloating

Marsvin
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I was diagnosed with Ovarian cancer 4 weeks ago & have had tests so they can work out how bad & a plan. I started bloating up about 10 days ago & now I have a tummy the size of a 9 month pregnant woman. It is so uncomfortable  & I am now getting problems walking up the stairs & my back muscles are hurting so sitting, standing or lying is also uncomfortable. I had a biopsy last Wednesday & they said they would drain the fluid but didn't do it as there was a critical incident at the hospital. Should I be contacting them to ask for it to be done?

I feel so in the dark.

Is this usual?

Thank you

Lyn

  • Hi  

    Thanks for getting in touch with us on our online community. My name’s Louise and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here. 

     

    It’s important to report any changes or concerns to your healthcare team. Because you are in a lot of discomfort, we would encourage you to contact your hospital team straight away. If you can’t reach your hospital team, phone 111. They can arrange to drain the fluid and prescribe any medications to make you more comfortable.  

     

    It sounds like you are having a difficult time with the bloating caused by the fluid in your stomach (ascites). Many people experience ascites caused by cancers such as ovarian cancer, and many find this uncomfortable when the fluid is not drained. So yes, it is usual, but it’s also important to have a plan to manage the ascites and to be comfortable. 

     

    Draining the fluid can really help make people feel much more able to do daily activities such as walking upstairs that you mention. Your healthcare team will be able to discuss the best way for you to manage the ascites. 

     

    It can be a really difficult time waiting to get a full diagnosis and plan of care, and even more so if you are struggling with symptoms. 

     

    Your healthcare team are there to support you. You can contact your clinical nurse specialist (CNS) with any concerns, they are there to talk things through and answer any questions.  

     

    Some people find it helpful to share experiences with others in a similar situation. You can find this type of support in the ovarian cancer group you have joined here on our online community. You can also find support in your area.  

     

    We have some information on help with how you are feeling which might be useful. You can also call us. One of our nurses would be happy to talk things through. 

     

    Kind regards   

    Louise, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist   

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.   

    Our Ref: GJ 

      

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