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Ascities

Annie.63
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Hi,

My husband had 7 litres of blood fluid drained from his abdomen around 7 weeks ago.  Apparently, a CT scan has showed that his bowel cancer from 10 yrs ago has spread to the stomach lining and lungs and is terminal.  They have given him six months, maybe twelve with chemotherapy.  Since the diagnosis 7 weeks ago, he has been making cannabis tea and having at least one cup each day - medical team are aware.    I have to say, he looks and feels fantastic.  Even his medical team seem surprised that he is looking and feeling so well, given his prognosis.    He looks totally normal.  Apart the the symptom of ascities, he had no other symptom that the cancer had returned.  The ascities is showing no signs of returning at present, which, at 7 weeks, must be good?

He is due to start palliative chemotherapy this Monday.  I know it sounds daft but I feel that chemotherapy is going to make things worse!  I feel as though we need another CT to confirm he REALLY does have cancer!  ...  Could the cannabis tea really be helping?  

Has anyone else had ascities which hasn't returned for a good while?  Or had any experiences with cannabis use?  

Thanks 

 

Annie 

 

  • Hello Annie, 

     

    While there is evidence that medicinal cannabis products can help manage pain and side-effects from cancer treatment, cannabis (THC) remains illegal to purchase in the UK and there is currently no reliable evidence that it can effectively treat cancer in patients. Further trials are needed to understand whether cannabis-containing products could be used to treat cancer in the future. You can find out more about the research that is currently being carried out in a very interesting article on our science blog. 

     

    Taking cannabis could also potentially interfere with any other conventional cancer treatments and can carry other side effects and risks as well so I'm really plaesed to hear that you've already discussed things with your husband's medical team. It's important that they are away of this. 

     

    In terms of your husband's upcoming treatment and requesting another CT scan it would be best to speak with the team caring for him on Monday when you go for the appointment. They will be best placed to discuss things with you. 

     

    I hope that your husband continues to remain comfortable and that you're able to enjoy the time that you're spending together. 

     

    If you'd like to speak to one of our nurses about anything in your/my post then please do give them a call on 0808 800 4040 (Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm). 

     

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi,

    Yes, we are fully aware of the above.  

    Regarding the ascities, is it normal for it to stay away for 7 plus weeks?  My understanding was that it would build up straight away after initial drainage?

    Regards

    Anne 

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