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Not eating. Diarrhoea

LindyR
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m really struggling to eat. My really trying but everything is a struggle. Ok with soft liquids but as soon as I try chewing it’s really hard work. Even struggling with eating fish tried bread that now tastes awful. It gets worse as the day progresses. The very thought of food makes me nauseous. I have really bad diarrhoea which isn’t helping. So tired lack of energy. Everything is hard work. 

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    Hi LindyR

    So sorry to hear you are struggling, especially with the eating and appetite my wife is going through the same thing and is losing 3kg every 3 weeks. I have made a few suggestions in the last paragraph, but first just to say a bit about my situation. 

    My wife has had cervical cancer since 2020 and this year it has got progressively worse and she has lost a lot of weight. Encouraging her to eat seems to be my biggest challenge as well as watching and trying to help her deal with the pain. We have been together for 30 years, with many ups and downs. Though we still love each other very much. I am 62 and my wife is 63 both retired early.

    About 14 days ago one of our nurse suggested trying olanzapine as an anti sickness and nausea treatment if you check it out describe it as an anti sickness because it is mostly known as anti psychotic. Our nurse said it would help her put on weight. Well you would never believe it, for the first time in months my wife has eaten full meals and is now asking for food and feeling hungry. I don't know if it will work for you or even if you have already tried it, but it is certainly working here. Also if you have lost quite a bit of weight and can show it from your cancer treatment book, it is worth asking your doctor or oncologist to prompt your doctor to supply Ensure Compact drink you take one or two a day. It will be very helpful in helping you to put the weight back on. 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about what's been happening. It sounds like you are going through a lot right now.

    It's important to let your GP and/or hospital team know about how you are feeling. They can assess you and prescribe anti sickness and diarrhoea medication, that should help. Some patients need a combination of medications. We have information on our website on managing sickness and diarrhoea.

    Your may benefit from input from a community dietician (via GP), or a hospital dietician referral, (via hospital team). We have information on tips for diet problems.

    Macmillan Cancer Support have information on nutritional-supplements Some of these, such as fortified juices and shakes can be prescribed by your GP or a dietician. They also have information on a building up diet.

    The World Cancer Research Fund have a cancer-and-nutrition-helpline which is staffed by dieticians.

    I hope that this is of some help. Give us a ring if you want to talk anything over with one of the nurses. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Best wishes,

    Celene

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