Hello and thanks for posting

I'm sorry to read about your husband's situation. This must be an incredibly difficult time for you both.

A very bad, rotten‑meat smell can sometimes happen in advanced oesophageal cancer. It usually comes from the tumour breaking down or food getting stuck around the cancer or the stent. Food that doesn’t move through properly can sit and rot, which can cause the smell.

I’m not sure if your husband is being supported by a palliative care team, often they are known as Macmillan nurses. They are experts in controlling cancer symptoms. They can check or refer him to the hospital to check if food is building up, if the stent has shifted or narrowed. if there’s an infection, and if medicines might help. They can also provide emotional support to you both. If your husband doesn’t have a palliative care team involved in his care he could ask his GP or hospital team to refer him.  

I hope this reply is of some use. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Best wishes,

Celene