Stopped eating

My husband has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer. It is terminal. He was given a prognosis of 3 to 12 months. This was 4 weeks ago. He has however stopped eating, he has had no food, only water and Lucozade  for over a week. He doesn't want me to ring the hospital. I don't know what to do

  • Hello Polb

    I'm sorry to hear about your husband's diagnosis. Undoubtedly this is a difficult time for you both and it's understandable that you may be feeling overwhelmed by things. 

    I can understand that your husband doesn't want you to contact the hospital. Perhaps he is afraid of being taken into hospital and this isn't what he wants. However, having some advice and support will enable him to be as comfortable as possible and give you the support you need whilst caring for him. I don't know if there is a family member who could perhaps reach out to the health professionals on your behalf if you don't feel comfortable making that call yourself? Or perhaps you could call our team of nurses for some information and support. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040 (excluding bank holidays). 

    I hope that you can reach out for some support Polb. Keep in touch with us here at Cancer Chat - we're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Thank you. I have contacted the Cancer Care team at the hospital. They are going to ring tomorrow as a supposed routine call so he doesn't know I've instigated it. Though I don't know what they can do. We don't have any family and he doesn't want my friend to see him. It's very difficult and distressing