Hi
My mum has suspected gastric adenocarcinoma but because of her age and general health they won't do an endoscopy which is what they say is a definitive diagnosis tool. She feels she has a tight band around the top of her tummy under her breast (like a tight bra). She cannot eat much and her appetite is very reduced. My sister and I share care for her but we're so frustrated because nobody seems to want to at least put her on a palliative pathway. She is now beginning to lose weight due to her lack of calories, although I keep a strong eye on giving her tasty tidbits and a couple of nutritious shakes if I can. She's not in pain but is very uncomfortable. GI consultant says probs cancer but GP now is testing for h.Pylori which she doesn't have symptoms of but oh well . We're on a list to see a dietician but my daughter and I are both qualified nutritionists so im not sure what more help they can give. I suppose i'm just frustrated, it feels like the 'system' doesn't care and that no-one is listening. She was a nurse so is very stoic and desperately trying to keep her independence, often to the detriment of expressing her real struggles. I lost my Dad last year and I think her body as a carer held out for so long and now has taken a huge sigh and said "nope! Not doing anymore."
