Chemo nausea

My brother in his late forties was diagnosed with esophageal cancer in March. He has not been able to eat or swallow for about 2 months A month ago he had a tube put directly into his stomach. He had a Hickman line put in and started chemo 1 week ago. He has been in bed all week and is ‘dry vomiting’ all the time. I have looked for suggestions on how to get him through this but there is only advice for getting him to eat and drink particular things which he can’t do. He is now saying he doesn’t want his next round of chemo when he so desperately needs it. Has anyone got any suggestions to what we can do? Thank you 

  • Hello Kath2008,

    I'm sorry to hear your brother's situation and can imagine you're doing your best to support him. It's important you and him discuss his worries about the next round chemotherapy and the problems with the Hickman line with his medical team, if he hasn't already. They may be able to reassure him and can monitor and possibly adjust the dosage if need. We have some advice on living with chemotherapy and coping with oesophageal cancer on our website. There's also some guidance for loved ones supporting people with cancer. If it would help to talk things through, please don't hesitate to give our nurses a call. They are available Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm on freephone 0808 800 4040

    I hope this is useful and that things improve,

    Moderator Anastasia