Colorectal cancer

chatting

Hi! I have rectal cancer that metastasized to my lungs after I had already gone through chemo and radiation. I am now on my 11th out of 12 cycles to treat that. I’ve had neurothapy in my hands and feet since July and now have a rectovaginal fistula! I guess I’m just looking for a place to Commiserate Hahahaha

Chesnutmor

Hi,

You are in my thoughts. It is not an easy journey. Try massages for the neuropathy. It will help. Also, keep the faith.

Jill

Kazenmax

Hi,

The same thing happened to me. 2016 diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. 18 months after my initial diagnosis and APR surgery, it came back in my left lung. I had wedge surgery to remove 1/3 of my lung and then followed up with 6 months of chemo. That ended in December 2018 and I’ve been NED ever since.

I also had a rectovaginal fistula that was repaired during APR surgery. It has never really healed. I’ve had multiple repair surgeries. It has healed somewhat… no longer bleeding…but it’s still there. I got my colostomy in 2016 so I don’t have any problem with stool passing through but it has been a challenge.

I think the hardest thing is to remember to NOT pick up anything heavier than 5 lbs. i have neuropathy in my hands and feet that bothers me. I wake up every night for the pain in my right foot. I can’t even stand the sheet on it.

I have started edible CBN and THC which helps me sleep. I actually think the CBN has helped more than anything.

Sending you strength. 💙

k

Chesnutmor

If you have severe neuropathy, they recommended to my mom to get Lidocaine that is 5%. It can be expensive so I suggest getting a small bottle online. It is the same stuff used to numb an area for tattoo. It may help the pain of neuropathy. Also, my other suggestion that helped my mom is to get a foot warmer heating pad. It is a sack that will keep your feet warm. It may help.

Sending Prayers and strength.

Jill

SnapDragon2

Do you have fever or noticeable swelling? Any anti-biotics.

Key-E suppositories might be good. The vitamin E is a healing agent, the coconut oil in it is anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial. Maybe also a sitz bath with epsom salt and aloe vera for 10-15 minutes 3 times a day.

A good probiotic with living enzymes (refridgerated type biotic) is something you could consider as helpful.

Watch for infection symptoms. Fistulas can cause sepsis. The chemo might be the cause as it disrupts your digestion and gut biome. Radiation might also be the cause as it does so much damage to the lining and tissues.

whenitistimetofight

https://csn.cancer.org/discussion/324904/colorectal-cancer

We can be your soundboard if needed. !