Swallowing problems

• Hi Moggie T, sorry to hear about your swallowing difficulties. My husband is 5 months post op and has had 4 stretches due to scarring. The last stretch worked and he came off the feeding tube 2 weeks ago. He's now eating OK but sometimes food can get stuck. Plenty of gravy with food is helpful. He's just started to eat bread again but without crusts and has to dip bread in a sauce to eat it. It seems to be a slow process but hopefully you'll get there. 

Thank you for replying Ella-gosh, 4 stretches. I’m glad they have finally worked for your husband. It must be quite a common thing to have problems swallowing. I do hope I can get it sorted. 

Hi Maggie, I have had the same problems as you and have had 13 stretches as mine was very stubborn , I had a lot of scarring and the entrance to my stomach was very tight , pleased to say it’s normal now and I can eat almost everything , I was very nervous about having a stretch but to be honest after what you have been through it’s a price of cake , didn’t hurt and was over very quickly so good luck and don’t worry regards jackie

Hello Moggie T. My cancer was two years ago now and I’m currently cancer free! I had to have A LOT of stretches, always had sedation. My oesophagus post op was 3mm due to scarring, so eating was impossible. Following the oncologist, who was, my life saver, I’m now at 25mm and eating reasonably normally aside from the occasional bout of food getting stuck and the hiccups! My cancer cell carcinoma  will be with me for life but it’s not terminal just a nuisance! Hang in there, you ..will Get through this. Good Luck and try not to worry, after what you’ve already been through a stretch is a doddle! Thinking of you. I’m due my six monthly check up via endoscopy next week, so I do know how you’re feeling.

Thanks for that Jackie. Gosh 13 stretches!! I did wonder if it would be painful, but as you say after the op, it’ll be a walk in the park I’m sure. I do hope I don’t have too much longer to wait. ️