The Cancer Survivors Network (CSN) is a peer support community for cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and friends! CSN is a safe place to connect with others who share your interests and experiences.

stage 4 breast cancer

busterruss
busterruss CSN Member Posts: 4
edited March 2014 in Breast Cancer #1
My mother has stage 4 breast cancer and it spread to her vertebra. She had surgery to try to remove the tumors. They removed as much as they could with the surgery. She is now being treated with radiation for her back. She is having a difficulty swallowing. Can anyone offer any suggestions to help her along?
Like Care

Comments

  • seof
    seof CSN Member Posts: 819 Member
    #2
    I am not sure what type of difficulty she is having with swallowing, but try different head positions (chin down, facing forward, facing right or left) different food textures (puree, jello, pudding, liquid, adding gravy or sauces to regular food....) If she is having a sore throat a lot, sucking on hard candies (lemon drops) might help. Beyond that, ask the Dr or nurses. Nurses know a lot about how to help patients be more comfortable.

    Keep up your good work taking care of her.
    Like Care
  • 3cbrca
    3cbrca CSN Member Posts: 206
    #3
    My mom had radiation to her mouth and had a terrible time with swallowing. One day she said she was "craving" a Burger King whopper and so I went out and got one, ground the contents and put it between the buns (they had pulled her teeth for the RT). She got the flavor she was craving but drank a lot of milkshakes and ENSURE (I personally like BOOST better). Soups had too much seasoning.

    Hope that helps.
    Like Care

Discussion Boards