Stent

Hi

I can't help with your question but I noticed that your post hadn't had any replies yet. By replying to you it will 'bump' it back to the top of the discussion list where hopefully someone with the right experience will see it and reply.

While you're waiting for replies it would be great if you could pop something about your husbands journey with cancer into your profile as it really helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar diagnosis. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.

x

Thanks. I'll do that. 

Hi Cath,

My husband had a stent fitted in Feb and can manage most foods ok now.  We built up slowly over several days - starting with liquids only, then yoghurt, soup etc, before moving onto solids.  He now has most things without a problem, but there are a few things we haven't attempted and steer clear of such as grapes, sausages (due to the skin on them).  Also, keep something sparkling/fizzy handy, in the event that the stent does get blocked - don't panic (he will still be able to breathe fine), get him to stand or be a bit more upright, and sips of something fizzy seem to help on this front.

A few things I think I should mention - firstly the stent we had continues to expand for a few days after it is fitted, so there may be some discomfort while this happens and it settles in, make sure you have some painkillers and don't be afraid to use them during this time. Secondly, before they discharge your hubby they should give him something like Omeprazole to take home - this is important as it will help with acid reflux which is very common after having a stent fitted.  Lastly, once it's done bear in mind it is best if he doesn't sleep flat - this also causes acid to come up which can result in some painful coughing, basically because the oesophagus is kept open after the stent is fitted. We use a wedge pillow for this which works well, but ofcourse a hospital bed if you have one at home will work well too - they key is just to keep your upper body a bit more raised so gravity can help keep the acid down.

Just wanted to mention also that we've found drinks like Fortisip really helpful to keep weight up when appetite and/or swallowing is a problem - they're full of protein and nutrients and your gp can prescribe them.

I can't help on the forgetfulness aspect, but there's lots of lovely people on here who I'm sure can, or you could try the 'Ask a Nurse' section on here too.

Anyway I hope you are doing ok, I know how hard it is caring for someone you love, sending you a big virtual hug.

I hope this helps a bit, and if there's anything else please just ask

x

Hi Yani, the nurse went over with me what will happen with the stent. He will change from the omeprazole he is on to lanzoprazol soluble tomorrow. He started the fortisip 2 days ago but I'm having an awful time getting him to take them. He has become very constipated because of the oramorph and I'm trying to push fluids but he has only taken wee sips all day so far. Need to speak to nurse and ask her to speak to him as he listens to her more than me. Even though I'm an ex nurse lol. My daughter feels he has given up. He isn't looking forward to sleeping raised up as he sleeps with only 1 pillow on his front normally. I'll let him know how your hubby is eating nearly normally and that should boost him. Thanks again.