Difficulty swallowing---Needing Prayer

DLS5419
DLS5419 Member Posts: 34
edited March 2014 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
My mother(46 years old) is a 6 year stage 4 tonsil cancer survivor(as of may). After surgery to remove tonsils, 22 treatments of radiation, and 2 different concurrent chemotherapies, she was given the thumbs up for no cancer. However, she had been severely burnt from the inside out with sores from her lips down her esophagus. She was sloughing, was deaf in one ear, and could not swallow even water. She was receiving nutrients from a port on her chest (TPN) and pain meds. After months of healing, mom was left with only a few working saliva glands and has had to carry water with her constantly. The past six years have been filled with ups and downs. In 2006, mom had to have an ablation as an issue after chemo. From 2007-2008, mom was on constant oxygen for 8 months after her lungs failed to work properly (doctors never did figure out the complete reason why they had stopped working). She was literally MIRACULOUSLY healed from that ailment in early spring 2008. The doctors were amazed...her pulse ox went from low 80s and high 70s to mid 90s on the day they were supposed to put her in the hospital.
NOW that leads me to current day: I came home from school and mom had slowly dropped 20 lbs in 10 months (102 at her worst) and began to have issues swallowing. She claims she has had issues for a while but they are not "the problem." "The Problem" began about three weeks ago when she started choking randomly on anything from lettuce to small pills. When I say choking, I mean the particle GETS STUCK somewhere in her throat. She is unable to speak or breath, which terrifies her, and we can only seem to get it down by taking tiny pieces of bread and mixing it with water to try and push whatever is stuck back down. It does not happen with every meal, and in fact it is kinda a random occurrence...can't really tell when or what will trigger it. She has had mild pain (deep near her thyroid area) for about a month. She has been tired, but physically appears healthy on the outside. I am worried. I made her an appointment with a gastro doctor for Thursday, and am going to attempt to contact her old cancer doctor tomorrow. A few years ago they did a scan when she couldn't breath and it recorded a small diverticulum in her esophagus. She will do ANYTHING to ignore an issue like this. I want to know if any head and neck cancer patients have experienced ANYTHING like this??? Is it dangerous for her to ignore these symptoms? It has been a couple of days since she last choked, but any swallow could lead to something. I will take any and all advice. Thanks.
«1

Comments

  • Glenna M
    Glenna M Member Posts: 1,576
    Contact her doctor
    I would strongly suggest that you contact her doctor immediately. The first question my ENT asks me every month when I get my monthly scope is "are you having any difficulty swallowing?" I am 9 months post treatment and have not had very many issues with swallowing but I know how scary it can be when food gets stuck in your throat and you can't breath. Please do not wait - call the doctor immediately and explain her situation, ignoring it will not make it go away.

    My best to you and your mom, Glenna
  • denistd
    denistd Member Posts: 597
    Glenna M said:

    Contact her doctor
    I would strongly suggest that you contact her doctor immediately. The first question my ENT asks me every month when I get my monthly scope is "are you having any difficulty swallowing?" I am 9 months post treatment and have not had very many issues with swallowing but I know how scary it can be when food gets stuck in your throat and you can't breath. Please do not wait - call the doctor immediately and explain her situation, ignoring it will not make it go away.

    My best to you and your mom, Glenna

    swallowing
    I think Glenna means, like now. It is imperative your mom sees the doctor, choking is nothing to be wait and seed. Denis
  • debbiejeanne
    debbiejeanne Member Posts: 3,102 Member
    I have to say I agree with
    I have to say I agree with the others. I would call and get her in immediately. Choking is nothing to ignore. I wish you and your mom the best and I will keep you in my prayers. Please let us know what you find out.
    God Bless you,
    debbie
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34

    I have to say I agree with
    I have to say I agree with the others. I would call and get her in immediately. Choking is nothing to ignore. I wish you and your mom the best and I will keep you in my prayers. Please let us know what you find out.
    God Bless you,
    debbie

    Thanks so much
    Thanks so much for the support. I need help pushing her to the doctor sometimes. Update: Well, I called her Oncologist today and left a detailed message about mom's issues. I was hoping they would CALL BACK before they closed, but I am sure they will call in the morning. I'll have the phone ready. If they don't call by 12:30, I will call again and maybe even go up there to get mom's file for the doctor on Thursday (GI). Mom was ok the first half of today. She had a slight headache all day, and then around 4:30 she broke into a sweat and started shaking. That concerned me. No matter what, mom needs to go to the doctor. I am praying for her to just need a throat dilation from the radiation scarring years ago. Even the diverticulum getting larger and causing her issues would be better than a recurrence of the evil 6 letter word. As I wright this I hear her clearing her throat and instant fear comes over me...knowing she could be choking. UGH! I just want her to feel good again. Keep Praying. I'll keep you updated. God bless.

    Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

    2 Corinthians 4:7-11 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed...
  • debbiejeanne
    debbiejeanne Member Posts: 3,102 Member
    DLS5419 said:

    Thanks so much
    Thanks so much for the support. I need help pushing her to the doctor sometimes. Update: Well, I called her Oncologist today and left a detailed message about mom's issues. I was hoping they would CALL BACK before they closed, but I am sure they will call in the morning. I'll have the phone ready. If they don't call by 12:30, I will call again and maybe even go up there to get mom's file for the doctor on Thursday (GI). Mom was ok the first half of today. She had a slight headache all day, and then around 4:30 she broke into a sweat and started shaking. That concerned me. No matter what, mom needs to go to the doctor. I am praying for her to just need a throat dilation from the radiation scarring years ago. Even the diverticulum getting larger and causing her issues would be better than a recurrence of the evil 6 letter word. As I wright this I hear her clearing her throat and instant fear comes over me...knowing she could be choking. UGH! I just want her to feel good again. Keep Praying. I'll keep you updated. God bless.

    Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

    2 Corinthians 4:7-11 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed...

    DSL5419, I would continue to
    DSL5419, I would continue to call and drive them nuts until the return my call. Or you may want to explain to the receptionist why a response is so crucial. It is sad that you mom is having new issues and I'm sorry to hear that. Hang in there tho, she will need you. You are an awesome daughter to care non stop for your mom. That is exactly what she needs. Don't forget to care about yourself also or you won't be able to help her. I am praying all goes well for both of yoy.
    God Bless you and mom,
    debbie
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34

    DSL5419, I would continue to
    DSL5419, I would continue to call and drive them nuts until the return my call. Or you may want to explain to the receptionist why a response is so crucial. It is sad that you mom is having new issues and I'm sorry to hear that. Hang in there tho, she will need you. You are an awesome daughter to care non stop for your mom. That is exactly what she needs. Don't forget to care about yourself also or you won't be able to help her. I am praying all goes well for both of yoy.
    God Bless you and mom,
    debbie

    Frustrated
    UGH! how do you force someone to take care of themselves? I know she is scared about her appt tomorrow, but to undermine the fact she chokes when she swallows? She keeps saying she would never even go to the doctor or go through with getting anything check if she was not choking...it does not matter she cant swallow well and has to watch what she eats! THAT she says she can live with. WHY would a person who has had cancer (METASTATIC TONSIL CANCER) not see that having trouble swallowing IS an issue. I dont want to scare her and let her know how dangerous it is cause she will come up with an excuse to cancel. Its a double edged sword...and if yoiu dont tell the doctor all your symptoms, they can't help you. I literally have to go into the exam room with her and retell the doctor her symptoms while she is making excuses. She keeps telling me she doesn't feel good ENOUGH to go to the doctor. Can someone give me a little inspiration? An insite maybe into the mind of survivor who seems to be stubborn? SHe keeps saying she wont do any "extreme tests" and if the doctor pushes, she will walk out of the room. HELP.
  • debbiejeanne
    debbiejeanne Member Posts: 3,102 Member
    DLS5419 said:

    Frustrated
    UGH! how do you force someone to take care of themselves? I know she is scared about her appt tomorrow, but to undermine the fact she chokes when she swallows? She keeps saying she would never even go to the doctor or go through with getting anything check if she was not choking...it does not matter she cant swallow well and has to watch what she eats! THAT she says she can live with. WHY would a person who has had cancer (METASTATIC TONSIL CANCER) not see that having trouble swallowing IS an issue. I dont want to scare her and let her know how dangerous it is cause she will come up with an excuse to cancel. Its a double edged sword...and if yoiu dont tell the doctor all your symptoms, they can't help you. I literally have to go into the exam room with her and retell the doctor her symptoms while she is making excuses. She keeps telling me she doesn't feel good ENOUGH to go to the doctor. Can someone give me a little inspiration? An insite maybe into the mind of survivor who seems to be stubborn? SHe keeps saying she wont do any "extreme tests" and if the doctor pushes, she will walk out of the room. HELP.

    dsl, I am truly sorry your
    dsl, I am truly sorry your mom isn't concered or is too scared to face it. I can't offer any info/advice b/c I've never known anyone like that. I understand her being afraid but realize she must be reasonable. I truly feel for you. Maybe ask her to do it for you. Or, just be straight with her so she realizes how important it is and exactly what it can be a sympton of. Other than that, I just don't know. I will pray for both of you. Try to hand in there. Best wishes and God Bless you.
    debbie
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34

    dsl, I am truly sorry your
    dsl, I am truly sorry your mom isn't concered or is too scared to face it. I can't offer any info/advice b/c I've never known anyone like that. I understand her being afraid but realize she must be reasonable. I truly feel for you. Maybe ask her to do it for you. Or, just be straight with her so she realizes how important it is and exactly what it can be a sympton of. Other than that, I just don't know. I will pray for both of you. Try to hand in there. Best wishes and God Bless you.
    debbie

    Calmed down
    Thanks.
    It is just tough. After giving her a moment to flip out, I usually get the truth from her. She is just scared. Absolutely terrified. Starting yesterday, mom has been experiencing new symptoms: bad headache lasting all day yesterday and today, chills then sweats every 30 min, feeling faint, paleness, etc. She doesn't even feel good enough to wash her hair for the appointment tomorrow. This is when she freaks out...which is completely understandable for a woman who was told 6 years ago she had a 20-30% chance to live 5 years. She feels like her time is limited to do all the things she wants to do. She has been officially in remission from the tonsil cancer for 6 years, but every year there is something horrible that plagues her...from breathing issues to swallowing issues. The doctor called me and told me they're faxing all her oncology records to the GI specialist for her appt tomorrow, and that they will be giving her a barium swallow test. I haven't told her about the barium swallow. Last time she had one (3 years ago) they made her swallow a pill, and she is afraid it will lodge in her throat if they make her do a the swallow...so I am not sure what they will do about that and I do not want to freak her out. I'm worried though. She just looks like she doesn't feel good. She told me she feels too weak to go to the doctor, but I told her no one goes to the doctor when they feel good. Anyway, I am going to go sit with her and try to keep her calm. Keep praying please. God bless
  • Pumakitty
    Pumakitty Member Posts: 652
    DLS5419 said:

    Calmed down
    Thanks.
    It is just tough. After giving her a moment to flip out, I usually get the truth from her. She is just scared. Absolutely terrified. Starting yesterday, mom has been experiencing new symptoms: bad headache lasting all day yesterday and today, chills then sweats every 30 min, feeling faint, paleness, etc. She doesn't even feel good enough to wash her hair for the appointment tomorrow. This is when she freaks out...which is completely understandable for a woman who was told 6 years ago she had a 20-30% chance to live 5 years. She feels like her time is limited to do all the things she wants to do. She has been officially in remission from the tonsil cancer for 6 years, but every year there is something horrible that plagues her...from breathing issues to swallowing issues. The doctor called me and told me they're faxing all her oncology records to the GI specialist for her appt tomorrow, and that they will be giving her a barium swallow test. I haven't told her about the barium swallow. Last time she had one (3 years ago) they made her swallow a pill, and she is afraid it will lodge in her throat if they make her do a the swallow...so I am not sure what they will do about that and I do not want to freak her out. I'm worried though. She just looks like she doesn't feel good. She told me she feels too weak to go to the doctor, but I told her no one goes to the doctor when they feel good. Anyway, I am going to go sit with her and try to keep her calm. Keep praying please. God bless

    Prayers
    I will pray for you and your mom. I know this is really hard on you right now. I wish I could say or do something to help you. Please keep us informed.
  • Glenna M
    Glenna M Member Posts: 1,576
    DLS5419 said:

    Calmed down
    Thanks.
    It is just tough. After giving her a moment to flip out, I usually get the truth from her. She is just scared. Absolutely terrified. Starting yesterday, mom has been experiencing new symptoms: bad headache lasting all day yesterday and today, chills then sweats every 30 min, feeling faint, paleness, etc. She doesn't even feel good enough to wash her hair for the appointment tomorrow. This is when she freaks out...which is completely understandable for a woman who was told 6 years ago she had a 20-30% chance to live 5 years. She feels like her time is limited to do all the things she wants to do. She has been officially in remission from the tonsil cancer for 6 years, but every year there is something horrible that plagues her...from breathing issues to swallowing issues. The doctor called me and told me they're faxing all her oncology records to the GI specialist for her appt tomorrow, and that they will be giving her a barium swallow test. I haven't told her about the barium swallow. Last time she had one (3 years ago) they made her swallow a pill, and she is afraid it will lodge in her throat if they make her do a the swallow...so I am not sure what they will do about that and I do not want to freak her out. I'm worried though. She just looks like she doesn't feel good. She told me she feels too weak to go to the doctor, but I told her no one goes to the doctor when they feel good. Anyway, I am going to go sit with her and try to keep her calm. Keep praying please. God bless

    Guilt and shame???
    I hate to suggest this to you but have you used the old "guilt trip" on your mother?? My daughter learned to do this quite nicely with me whenever I was being too stubborn for my own good. She would sit me down and nicely tell me how much she loves me and worries about me and that I needed to take care of myself and go to the doctors because she loved me and couldn't bear the thought of losing me. She would talk to me as if I were the child and she the parent ;-) I would try to remind her that I was the mother and she was the daughter and she would tell me that since I had no mother (my mother passed away in 2002) she was taking over the role because I needed someone to watch over me and take care of me like my mother used to. With the love that I saw in her eyes I knew I would have to do as she asked, how could a mother disappoint a daughter who loved her that much???

    You have to do whatever it takes, she really needs to keep her appointments and be honest with the doctors. If not for herself then she needs to do it for you. She is very lucky to have such a loving daughter who is trying to take care of her.

    You and your mother will both be in my prayers. Please post again and let us know how your mom is doing. We care.

    Glenna
  • denistd
    denistd Member Posts: 597
    Glenna M said:

    Guilt and shame???
    I hate to suggest this to you but have you used the old "guilt trip" on your mother?? My daughter learned to do this quite nicely with me whenever I was being too stubborn for my own good. She would sit me down and nicely tell me how much she loves me and worries about me and that I needed to take care of myself and go to the doctors because she loved me and couldn't bear the thought of losing me. She would talk to me as if I were the child and she the parent ;-) I would try to remind her that I was the mother and she was the daughter and she would tell me that since I had no mother (my mother passed away in 2002) she was taking over the role because I needed someone to watch over me and take care of me like my mother used to. With the love that I saw in her eyes I knew I would have to do as she asked, how could a mother disappoint a daughter who loved her that much???

    You have to do whatever it takes, she really needs to keep her appointments and be honest with the doctors. If not for herself then she needs to do it for you. She is very lucky to have such a loving daughter who is trying to take care of her.

    You and your mother will both be in my prayers. Please post again and let us know how your mom is doing. We care.

    Glenna

    Choking
    Your mother is having a lot of symptoms, a lot of the symptoms,sweats, chills, headaches denial are all classic symptoms of severe anxiety, and who would not be anxious, I do sometimes. The choking though is a different kettle of fish. If, after the appointment with the gi doc your mother starts having these spells again, dial 911 and get her into the ER, and let the docs work on it.
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34
    denistd said:

    Choking
    Your mother is having a lot of symptoms, a lot of the symptoms,sweats, chills, headaches denial are all classic symptoms of severe anxiety, and who would not be anxious, I do sometimes. The choking though is a different kettle of fish. If, after the appointment with the gi doc your mother starts having these spells again, dial 911 and get her into the ER, and let the docs work on it.

    Game Plan
    Well, we went to the doctor today...mom's GI physician was WONDERFUL. She spoke calmly to mom and listened to her every concern. Mom's oncologist had faxed all her old reports and a new game plan for what to do next. Then, she explained mom's Barium swallow will be Monday morning, and in a few weeks (july 23 to be exact) she will have an endoscopy-throat dilation. I think the doctors are hopeful mom just has severe scarring from the radiation treatments six years ago. They told her they're ordering a pediatric scope for the procedure, which really helped her nerves. They also explained she would feel just fine the day after (mom was worried about recovery down time). The doctor tried to keep mom informed and at ease. They are just making her swallow the liquid...mom was concerned about the little pill they made her do last time. I did notice Dr. Pandya's concern when she felt around mom's neck...which looks enlarged near the middle part. It freaked me out because I did noticed right before the doctor had entered the room and asked mom about it...its significantly enlarged for her small frame. We looked again when we got home and it even freaked mom out a little. She has had thyroid issues before and is taking medicine, so I am not sure if this is related to her esophagus or the thyroid. I guess that will be figured out Monday as well. The goal is to just be here for her and keep her calm before Monday. I loved how mom explained in a clueless tone that she could live with not being able to swallow well and that stuff sometimes "sticks to her throat" when she tries to swallow, which was according to her "something she can just live with." "But," mom said,"my real concern is the choking and aspirating." The doctor kept a good poker face as mom explained her issue began about three weeks ago when she started severely choking at random. We all kept a poker face to not freak her out. Dr. Pandya calmly explained that mom needs to eat only mushy foods and chew until food becomes "like baby food consistency" until we can figure out whats bothering her throat. We got the prep info and left the doctor's office with mom's appointment slip in hand for Monday's Barium swallow. Sigh. A couple more days and my personal fears will be calmed a little...they can see abnormalities with barium swallows right? Everyone, thanks for your help. For some reason it is easier to keep going full speed with cancer warriors and prayer warriors on my side. I know my Father God is always here, and I fully trust in His word and His guidance, and that is how I know this site was a God send. Thanks for the support. I will keep you updated. God bless.

    Psalm 4:8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.
  • debbiejeanne
    debbiejeanne Member Posts: 3,102 Member
    DLS5419 said:

    Game Plan
    Well, we went to the doctor today...mom's GI physician was WONDERFUL. She spoke calmly to mom and listened to her every concern. Mom's oncologist had faxed all her old reports and a new game plan for what to do next. Then, she explained mom's Barium swallow will be Monday morning, and in a few weeks (july 23 to be exact) she will have an endoscopy-throat dilation. I think the doctors are hopeful mom just has severe scarring from the radiation treatments six years ago. They told her they're ordering a pediatric scope for the procedure, which really helped her nerves. They also explained she would feel just fine the day after (mom was worried about recovery down time). The doctor tried to keep mom informed and at ease. They are just making her swallow the liquid...mom was concerned about the little pill they made her do last time. I did notice Dr. Pandya's concern when she felt around mom's neck...which looks enlarged near the middle part. It freaked me out because I did noticed right before the doctor had entered the room and asked mom about it...its significantly enlarged for her small frame. We looked again when we got home and it even freaked mom out a little. She has had thyroid issues before and is taking medicine, so I am not sure if this is related to her esophagus or the thyroid. I guess that will be figured out Monday as well. The goal is to just be here for her and keep her calm before Monday. I loved how mom explained in a clueless tone that she could live with not being able to swallow well and that stuff sometimes "sticks to her throat" when she tries to swallow, which was according to her "something she can just live with." "But," mom said,"my real concern is the choking and aspirating." The doctor kept a good poker face as mom explained her issue began about three weeks ago when she started severely choking at random. We all kept a poker face to not freak her out. Dr. Pandya calmly explained that mom needs to eat only mushy foods and chew until food becomes "like baby food consistency" until we can figure out whats bothering her throat. We got the prep info and left the doctor's office with mom's appointment slip in hand for Monday's Barium swallow. Sigh. A couple more days and my personal fears will be calmed a little...they can see abnormalities with barium swallows right? Everyone, thanks for your help. For some reason it is easier to keep going full speed with cancer warriors and prayer warriors on my side. I know my Father God is always here, and I fully trust in His word and His guidance, and that is how I know this site was a God send. Thanks for the support. I will keep you updated. God bless.

    Psalm 4:8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe.

    I'm very glad your mom has
    I'm very glad your mom has been to the doc and the doc plans to do tests. Sorry you have to wait, we all know that is the hard part. If your mom's test is like one I had, yes, they will be able to see abnormalities with the swallow test. Try not to worry so much, even tho i know that will be hard to do. Your mom has a great friend in you and you seem to be taking great care of her. I guess now we just have to wait. You both will be in my prayers. Like you said, God is always with us, therefore, what more could we want.
    God bless you both,
    debbie
  • Irishgypsie
    Irishgypsie Member Posts: 333

    I'm very glad your mom has
    I'm very glad your mom has been to the doc and the doc plans to do tests. Sorry you have to wait, we all know that is the hard part. If your mom's test is like one I had, yes, they will be able to see abnormalities with the swallow test. Try not to worry so much, even tho i know that will be hard to do. Your mom has a great friend in you and you seem to be taking great care of her. I guess now we just have to wait. You both will be in my prayers. Like you said, God is always with us, therefore, what more could we want.
    God bless you both,
    debbie

    Thyroid!
    I'm glad you mentioned Thyroid in your last post. I am still in treatment but i do know that hypothyroidism is a long term cause of radiation to the neck. Maybe she should have her thyroid checked out?

    Charles
  • Skiffin16
    Skiffin16 Member Posts: 8,305 Member

    Thyroid!
    I'm glad you mentioned Thyroid in your last post. I am still in treatment but i do know that hypothyroidism is a long term cause of radiation to the neck. Maybe she should have her thyroid checked out?

    Charles

    TSH Testing
    TSH is one of the tests that they order to check on thyroid operation. I know it's been mentioned on here before. I too am starting to show some sugns of an under active thyroid. TSH has went from 1.8 a year ago, then 3.6, now right at 5.0.

    I haven't been diagnosed with anything as of yet, but I am having a few signs that I have experienced before.

    I tend to be pretty tired in the evening, which I'm normally not. I also seem to be cooler than normal for me, leaving the AC on a higher setting.

    All of my MD's are pretty proactive so when I go in for my August PET and other exams, I'll mention it to them for advice.

    Best,
    John
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34
    Skiffin16 said:

    TSH Testing
    TSH is one of the tests that they order to check on thyroid operation. I know it's been mentioned on here before. I too am starting to show some sugns of an under active thyroid. TSH has went from 1.8 a year ago, then 3.6, now right at 5.0.

    I haven't been diagnosed with anything as of yet, but I am having a few signs that I have experienced before.

    I tend to be pretty tired in the evening, which I'm normally not. I also seem to be cooler than normal for me, leaving the AC on a higher setting.

    All of my MD's are pretty proactive so when I go in for my August PET and other exams, I'll mention it to them for advice.

    Best,
    John

    TODAY
    hey everyone...
    Please say your prayers today (June 28). Mom has her barium swallow at 8:45 a.m. I'll give details when we get home. God bless.
  • Skiffin16
    Skiffin16 Member Posts: 8,305 Member
    DLS5419 said:

    TODAY
    hey everyone...
    Please say your prayers today (June 28). Mom has her barium swallow at 8:45 a.m. I'll give details when we get home. God bless.

    You Have Them
    Prayers and thoughts are coming your way....

    Best,
    John
  • D Lewis
    D Lewis Member Posts: 1,581 Member
    DLS5419 said:

    TODAY
    hey everyone...
    Please say your prayers today (June 28). Mom has her barium swallow at 8:45 a.m. I'll give details when we get home. God bless.

    Sending good thoughts.
    Good thoughts coming your way.

    Deb
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34
    D Lewis said:

    Sending good thoughts.
    Good thoughts coming your way.

    Deb

    Freaked out.....!
    Mom had her Barium swallow test today....they would not let me or my dad go into the room with her. Mom drew me a picture of what she saw. She said she saw the barium as it traveled down her esophagus (in between the 1's) and the "D" is a small "growth" obstructing her esophagus... hence the choking on food/pills. When the food particle reaches that area, if it does not pass closer to the right, it gets caught and she chokes/aspirates.

    1 1
    1 1
    1 1
    1 1
    D 1----- the "D" is a kind of a nub, but Radiologist called it a web
    1 1
    1 1
    1 1

    The radiologist used the word WEB to describe it to mom, but her description is more of a little nub...he said mom also has a place near her neck vertebrae that look like this. He knew her background and told her that he was going to study and re-examine her test results before calling her Dr, but we should know more Wednesday. Prayers please.
    God bless.

    Dani
  • DLS5419
    DLS5419 Member Posts: 34
    DLS5419 said:

    Freaked out.....!
    Mom had her Barium swallow test today....they would not let me or my dad go into the room with her. Mom drew me a picture of what she saw. She said she saw the barium as it traveled down her esophagus (in between the 1's) and the "D" is a small "growth" obstructing her esophagus... hence the choking on food/pills. When the food particle reaches that area, if it does not pass closer to the right, it gets caught and she chokes/aspirates.

    1 1
    1 1
    1 1
    1 1
    D 1----- the "D" is a kind of a nub, but Radiologist called it a web
    1 1
    1 1
    1 1

    The radiologist used the word WEB to describe it to mom, but her description is more of a little nub...he said mom also has a place near her neck vertebrae that look like this. He knew her background and told her that he was going to study and re-examine her test results before calling her Dr, but we should know more Wednesday. Prayers please.
    God bless.

    Dani

    Tomorrow
    Tomorrow we hopefully find out Barium Swallow "results"...I say say that in quotes because that only confirmed there was a something poking out in her esophagus. The next step is the Endoscopy on July 23...I guess they might move it up if they are really concerned. I wonder what "it" is exactly? I guess prayer tonight for the doctor to have a clear idea of the next steps for mom...gosh that barium has wreaked havoc on mom...colitis all day. She looked so weak and dehydrated...I felt so bad for her. That stuff is wicked. All the tests are. It just bites you feel bad, so they poke and prod...which makes you feel worse...and then they come up with a solution to make you feel better, but in order to get to that solution you must feel bad...sometimes very bad as treatment progresses...to feel good again. :P The ups and downs. I know it must be hard to feel like she has felt. It amazes me at how strong she is and she doesn't even realize it. I am so blessed to have my mom here. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family, such a wonderful fiancé, and such a marvelous God. We have this poem hanging on the wall in our house. I remember when we received it as a gift before mom was officially in remission...Enjoy. God bless. Details tomorrow.

    What Cancer Cannot Do

    Cancer is so limited,
    (Yet In All These Things)

    It cannot cripple love, it cannot
    (We Are More Than Conquerors Through)

    Shatter hope,
    (Him Who Loves Us)

    It cannot corrode faith, it cannot
    (For I Am Persuaded That Neither Death Nor Life,)

    Destroy peace,
    (Nor Principalities Nor Powers,)

    It cannot kill friendship, it cannot
    (Nor Things Present Nor Things To Come,)

    Suppress memories,
    (Nor Height Depth, Nor Any Created Things,

    It cannot silence courage, it cannot
    (Shall Be Able To Separate Us)

    Invade the Soul
    (From The Love Of God,)

    It cannot steal eternal life,
    (Which Is In)

    It Cannot
    (Christ Jesus Our Lord) Romans 8:37-39

    Conquer the Spirit.