Pain relief issues.

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Hi.  I am an 80 yr old great grandmother recently diagnosed with an adenocarcinoma at the base of the oesophagus.  I,m too old for surgery  and too feeble, due to other health issues, for chemo or radiation.  They have inserted a stent which goes into the top of my stomach, which creates its own problems, including pain. Unfortunately I react very badly to opioids, as they increase my pain levels.  II am left with little option other than paracetamol. Which takes the edge off but it’s not enough. I am taking laxatives for constipation and have some vomiting butt mostly liquid as I have no appetite. I now feel defeated and can find no answers.  

  • Hi 

    I'm so sorry that you are going through this. It's horrible. I also don't react well to opoids. Sadly I can't think what I was given but certainly it was more than paracetamol. Can you get a feeding tube? Not the best experience but you'd feel much better with some nutrients in you. Do you have a family member or friend who can advocate for you with your medical team? I'm guessing you feel too horrible to cope with advocating for yourself. Otherwise I'd ring your GP or MacMillan and ask for support.  

    Take care,

    Sx

  • That sounds like an awful situation to be in, Hochiwich. There are pain management clinics that may be able to help, not specific to cancer though. My mother-in-law found help there when she came off morphine for severe arthritic pain in her neck and spine.

    I hope you manage to find some respite from your struggle.