Eating Problems

Robt54697 said:

Eating
Hi Hondo,
Brand new to this and just registered. I am 30 days post radiation. Had surgery, chemo, and radiation. Tonsil and several lymph nodes removed. Just depressed but do not take any anti depressants. It has been such a struggle to eat enough. Went from 166 lbs to 148 and have always worked out and been strong and healthy so just get down sometimes. Maybe you can click on my name and see pic and story. Anyway that is all. Thanks.

Robert

MJ70 said:

Hondo
Got most of all the wonderful new normals you do ..except i am retired, no dog but wish i did at times...I am seven years out and i have picked up great advice from you along the way since i joined...(stopper 4 is great)..I only eat breakfast and dinner for several reasons besides all the ones you listed ...I get postprandial hypotension after i eat...which simply means low blood pressure...which last for about an hour...90/45 or lower..makes me very weak kneed and have passed out.I am taking some new meds that should...help soon..(fluocortisone.) My favorite dinners are ramon noodles or minute rice mixed with italian minestrone soap and ever a little pasta sauce or tomato soap .. i eat it with a spoon because with my new left jaw bone made from my fibula i have no nerve in my lip so it helps me get it in my mouth and not my table... If we go out it is something close to that.. all in all we keep going..and thinking positive...I am getting my esphagus dilated tomorrow morning .. never thought that would make me excited but it does. Hope every on this board has a great week ahead... Mel

shine1113 said:

same here...
Hi Hondo,

I'm a 12yr-almost-stage4 NPCA survivor and am still on the same boat as you in terms of difficulty in eating, swallowing, talking, etc. From initial diagnosis in Nov. 1998, I underwent radiation, both external (cobalt therapy) and internal (brachytherapy). The treatment affected not only my taste buds but also my parotid gland (the largest of the salivary glands)thus, saliva production is very minimal to almost nil.

I have learned to live with this long-term (lifetime, I think!) side effect of radiation treatment as I'm well aware that proper nourishment is a must to boost the immune system and keep "big c" cells dormant. So, I complement each spoonful with sips of water in aid of chewing and swallowing. I'm grateful and blessed to have family and friends who fully understand my "eating difficulties" - slow-paced, in small quantities, sometimes nearly "choking" because food get stuck in my throat, etc.

At home, I always have a glass of water within reach to "refresh" my throat every so often. When eating out, the first thing I ask for is water and I also warn whoever I'm out with (esp. those who aren't aware of the side effect of treatment) that I eat slow, take time chewing to ease swallowing.

Though faced with this "eating challenge", I'm thankful that I don't lose sight of the more positive side of my big c journey - that is, I'm up and about and able to welcome each new day with a cheerful heart. Certainly, a grace from God who is with me (and with all of us) every step of the way and will get us through the hurdles.

So, my friend, a big hug to you with constant prayers. We're in this journey together. Take care always! You'll never walk alone.

shine1113

CAjim2011 said:

Yes Hondo, Jesus has walked
Yes Hondo, Jesus has walked with me through this process and continues to do so.
I am 7 weeks post rad, had TORS in April and Mod rad neck in May. No taste of food makes it a chore to eat. Had barium swallow today to investigate my swallowing problems (choking). I just pray to Jesus and place my problems with him.

Jim