My husband has bowel cancer - he has become nasty with violent shouting outbursts. Has anyone else had to deal with this?

He was diagnosed with rectal cancer 13 mths ago.....he refuses to discuss this with me,now he is having chemopathy weekly.....he has become nasty with violent shouting outbursts.....am scared of these outbursts,even the dog fears him.

Has anyone else had to deal with these outbursts.....have reported the situation to his cancer team who spoke to him months back sadly he has become worse.....he does apologise then all goes well for a few days,then something trival upsets him then the shouting begins.

  • Hello Hottie

    I'm so sorry to hear about the situation you find yourself in. Sadly, it is one that we read about all too often here in the Cancer Chat community. 

    A cancer diagnosis can not only bring physical pain but also physical symptoms, and your loved one may show signs of emotional distress. This could be withdrawing from family and friends, increased irritation, but especially fear, anxiety and anger, which are all common in this situation. None of this justifies the outbursts that you're being subjected to, though. 

    I'm glad that you've previously mentioned this issue to his medical team. It's certainly worth raising the issue with them again. I don't know if you have any close friends or family members that you can confide in who may also be able to offer you some support. 

    You have done the right thing in coming here and reaching out to others on the forum. Dealing with cancer can be a difficult time for both the patient and their loved ones and sometimes you need to talk to others who understand. Please do consider giving our Cancer Nurses a call if you need to ask any questions, they are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on freephone 0808 800 4040.

    It is crucial that you look after your own well-being and there are several organisations such as Carers UK and Carers Trust who can help support you during this difficult time. Hopefully others who have experience of this will reply soon to share their words of advice and support but keep in touch if it helps to have a safe space to put things down in writing. We're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator