Abdominal pain and Cholangiocarcinoma

My husband was diagnosed with stage 4 cholangiocarcinoma in June 2020.  He had 7 cycles of Gemcitabine which he coped with remarkedly well.  As a consequence the onchologist said that when this treatment failed they would offer him FOLFOX.  At the start of lockdown he was told that the Gemcitabine was no longer working but that they could not give him any chemotherapy due to the risk of contracting COVID 19.  In the last 4 weeks his pain has increased and his energy levels have markedly dropped.  I also thing his abdomen is getting larger.  He has spoken to a nurse about his pain and is taking oromorph as well as paracetamol but is there anything more that can be done for him?

During this lockdown I am feeling increasingly lonely, helpless and worried for my husband.

  • Hi Zephyrus,

    I'm sorry to read about the difficulties with your husband and I can certainly understand your feelings about this. I would encourage you to speak to his doctor or specialist about this if you can, as it's important you're informed about any possible steps to take.

    If you'd like to discuss with our nurses, who may be able to offer some advice, you can reach them on 0808 800 4040 - Monday-Friday, 9-5.

    I hope you're able to find out more soon and that things are able to improve.

    Wishing you all the best,

    Ben
    Cancer Chat Moderator

  • Hi- my husband has stage 4 colorectal cancer in his liver diagnosed June 19. He underwent emergency ileostomy surgery last summer and started chemo after a remarkable recovery from the op. He changed in December to a diff chemo which we found out just before covid wasn't working and like your husband he has been unable to begin any treatment due to Covid. Similarly he has begun to get a lot of pain and the codeine/paracetamol and steroids prescribed don't seem to be working. Like you, I'm increasingly concerned and feel somewhat helpless due to the restrictions. I came on here looking to see if there was any kind of re-assurance from other people's experiences and saw your post. 
    I understand how hard it is, especially in these circumstances. Stay strong.