Personality changes

My father in law was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer last year. He has chemo followed by a big operation and then some more chemo. The cancer was removed during the surgery and the chemo was done as a precaution. He finished all treatment in May. He has been struggling with appetite but that's getting better and he is slowly getting stronger and looking healthier and gaining some wait. He has completely changed as a person though. He is snappy all the time and is very awkward. We feel like we are walking on egg shells all the time when we are around him and it's awful do you think this is just how he is now or could the changes be side effects from treatment. I feel so sad for my mother in law and my husband (his son) it's so hard to watch. 

  • A warm welcome to the Cancer Chat community RoLou57.

    I'm glad your father in law has come through his cancer treatment and is now on the road to recovery although I'm sorry about the changes you've noticed in his personality. 

    Being diagnosed with cancer and the rollercoaster ride that comes with it can bring about so many emotions and changes so how your father in law is behaving and reacting right now may be his way of coping with everything he has been through, although treatment can sometimes contribute as well. 

    The LiveBetterWith website have a really useful article about personality changes that you may want to read through but if you'd like to have a chat with one of cancer nurses about this then do give them a call on 0808 800 4040. Their phone lines are open Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m.

    I'm sure some of our members who have been on this journey will share their thoughts, experience and advice with you soon but in the meantime we're thinking of you and sending our support your way.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator