Anyone experience a bowel obstruction during treatment

Dmarie1075
Dmarie1075 Member Posts: 15
edited October 2017 in Anal Cancer #1

My mom has developed a mechanical bowel obstruction. She was heading into week 5 of her Nigro protocol when treatment was delayed after being hospitalized last weekend due to severe dehydration from diarrhea plus lack of nutrition. While hospitalized, she developed severe abdominal pain and distention without vomiting. She did start vomiting last night with probable aspiration. She has been transferred to ICU, is on a bipap machine, and we are waiting word from a general surgeon. 

Her Physicians are surprised she developed a bowel obstruction during treatment. Does anyone have experience with an obstruction during treatment?

Comments

  • mp327
    mp327 Member Posts: 4,440 Member
    #2
    Dmarie1075

    I'm glad the cause of your mom's pain has finally been properly diagnosed.  I think you already know my history.  Again, my obstruction(s) occurred post-treatment.  I'm so sorry your mom is having such a rough time.  Please keep us updated when you can.  I send all good thoughts for her!

  • Mollymaude
    Mollymaude Member Posts: 431 Member
    #3
    DMarie

    Im so sorry to hear she's in ICU. You and your mom will be in my prayers.

  • PegSue
    PegSue Member Posts: 13 Member
    #4
    obstruction

    I did not experience a bowel obstruction during treatment but my docs were concerned that I would so I am sure every case is different.  The way they explained it to me was that the radiation could cause the large mass to swell even more and cause an obstruction.  So sorry that you mom has to go through such a rough journey.  If it's any consolation, my Med Onc told me that this is one of the hardest treatments to go through.  I pray that you and your mom will look back one day and say "that really sucked but I survived".  

  • Dmarie1075
    Dmarie1075 Member Posts: 15
    #5
    Update...

    Update...

    They believe mom is experiencing an ileus, not an obstruction. We are hoping that this will correct in the next few days, she can heal, get home, complete treatment, and put this behind her. Thank you all for your messages. This support group has been so valuable and helpful throughout mom's journey. 

  • mp327
    mp327 Member Posts: 4,440 Member
    #6
    Dmarie1075

    Thank you for the update.  I'm hopeful for your mom that this will clear on its own and not lead to an obstruction or require surgery.  Please keep us posted as you can.

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