Lori, are you around for some questions?

Donna70
Donna70 Member Posts: 852 Member
edited March 2014 in Esophageal Cancer #1
Hi Lori,
When Jeff had to be dilated what were the symptoms? I have started to cough and choke after eating and sometimes that just causes everything to come up. It just seems like I can't hold back the coughing then that causes the gagging. It only happened once a month or less now I have had about 3-4 times this week. The dr mentioned I might have to be dilated but wanted to wait to decide at the end of April and I want it fixed pretty soon. Also did Jeff have trouble breathing, shortness of breath, it is 4 months and I still get sob walking up stairs and sometimes just on a flat surface. He had the same type of open surgery as me so I was wondering. Just not as far along as I wanted to be. Thought you and Jeff would have some answers but anyone can pipe in, I appreciate any input. take care,
Donna70

Comments

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  • MOE58
    MOE58 Member Posts: 589 Member
    DONNA I AM HERE I WORK DURING THE DAY YOU KNOW
    yes i can help i will e-mail you okay

    lori
  • dwhite0002
    dwhite0002 Member Posts: 126
    Dilations
    Donna,

    Three years out, and I still need to be dilated every so often. I went in last week. It actually was 5 months since my last one, however. I also use a bougie dilator at home. You can get them in different sizes. It helps when food is stuck. I supposed to use it every day, but I can't always get it past the two strictures I have.

    Anyhoo, best of luck!

    -David
  • Donna70
    Donna70 Member Posts: 852 Member

    Dilations
    Donna,

    Three years out, and I still need to be dilated every so often. I went in last week. It actually was 5 months since my last one, however. I also use a bougie dilator at home. You can get them in different sizes. It helps when food is stuck. I supposed to use it every day, but I can't always get it past the two strictures I have.

    Anyhoo, best of luck!

    -David

    thanks
    Hi,
    Thanks Bill and David. I did not know coughing was related to strictures but they have set me up for an EGD with dilation next Thursday on 4/15. I will be getting my post chemo CT scan on Tuesday 4/13 so it will be a busy week. I know I have been lucky with not getting the strictures before now so I am glad to get it fixed quickly. It does not help with my weight gaining, seems like I lost 2 lbs this week. Thanks again, I appreciate your words of encouragement. take care all, prayers always,
    Donna70