Hi my partner got digonised in May with Lung cancer which has spread to lymph nodes in his chest and stomach and spine. Hes been on chemo. We were told by a consultant his recent CT scan was stable, no change. Then 2 days later he became poorly, couldnt eat, terrrible stomach pains, tummy swollen. Not opened his bowels for 5 days now. Admitted to hospital and was told by another Consultant that CT scan showed difference in Lymph node in stomach, this could possibly be due to lymph nodes pressing on something or possibly a blot clot. Confused as to why we were told CT scan was stable. I ask questions as my partner just isnt vocal and dont want to bother anyone. He is on Fragin, Laxatives & Liquid Morphine and sent home to await a MRI scan in outpatients. He is still in so much pain, cant eat hardly anything and to be honest i feel i cant ask questions as its always me ringing on his behalf and asking and i feel they are fed up of me and sort of labelling me OTT but im so worried as its me seeing his pain and discomfort and i just want to help. Not sure how to handle this as we both just want answers and for him to be pain free but i dont want to keep ringing up all time
Please do not ever feel you are bothering them. This is their chosen profession. My daughter comes to every meeting. I have pages of questions written out with large gap underneath for answers to be written down. She will expand on m questions and if it takes longer than allotted time then so be it. My NSCLC mastastised to my peritoneal cavity and this caused terrible constipation, which can make you feel awful and is painful. I got referred to Palliative Care Hub. They are absolutely fabulous from person who answers phone to nurses who had to come to house to deal with constipation. Cancer does not just affect the body, the games it plays with your emotions. My nights are worst, thoughts racing, pecking away. My GP put me on a sleeping med and something for day if I was really having melting down. I would add I have never taken this type of drug in my life,, but it does take edge off. You and your partner are not a “nuisance” this is your lives. I wish you well on this dreadful rollercoaster.
Oh bless you for taking the time and replying to me. My partner one Consutant just isnt approachable, i ask him a question and he repeats it to my partner and askes if this correct, like he doesnt believe me, i dread seeing this Consultant come into the room. I will telephone this morning and ask for Pallative care support, thats a really good idea, thank uou so much. I also wish you well xx
Is this only Oncologist at your hospital? If not ask to be seen by another Oncologist. Some of them never taught bedside manner!
Yes Oncology Consultant, i will do as you are so right, its their chosen proffession so i need to voice my concerns as its me helping him daily, really appreciate your replies, take care x
I’m in similar situation with my hubby . Definitely get in touch with palliative nurses .they can help with symptoms and emotions . I was a difficult situation recently and I have now instigated all help that I can . Even if it’s not needed now it’s good for them to be aware . He’s not On many medications either so they’ll help with all that . Kind regards
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