Fluid in tummy

My sister was diagnosed with slow growing kidney cancer last November. Due to a heart condition it was decided that freezing the cancer was better than removing the kidney. For one reason or another, the procedure wasn’t scheduled until early September. When she went in, a scan showed it had spread to her stomach so treatment was put on hold and we’ve heard nothing since.

since then she’s benn in hospital

and had her stomach drained twice for fluid. She’s been discharged today with a permanent tube for a nurse to go out and drain. The hospital treating the fluid isn’t the one treating the cancer and no one seems to be talking to each other and we as a family aren’t getting any answers.

i’ve played DR Google and that’s telling me fluid in the stomach along with kidney and stomach cancer means 3-6 months? Is that correct? 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about your sister's situation. It sounds incredibly difficult and frustrating for you all as a family, especially with the lack of communication between the hospitals and the uncertainty around her treatment.

    It is difficult for us to answer questions on your sister's condition and prognosis as we are not involved in her clinical care. Her doctors are better placed to advise her on this as they are familiar with all her medical details. If your sister has a specialist nurse involved in her care then perhaps they can provide her with further information. You often have to call and leave them a message and they will get back to you.  

    I wonder if she has a Macmillan or palliative care nurse involved in her care. Their area of expertise is in the management of cancer symptoms as well as supporting her and the family with the emotional effects of cancer. They can liaise with the GP ensuring that any symptoms are managed. If your sister does not have access to a  Macmillan or palliative care nurse her hospital team or GP can arrange this if she would like them involved in her care.

    Hospitals will do their best to address any concerns patients have about their care. You may find it helpful to contact the hospital's Patient Advice and Liaison Service ( PALS)   to discuss your concerns. They can help coordinate information between your sister's hospitals making sure she has a clearer picture of what's happening.

    I hope this reply helps a little at this difficult time. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene