Ivor Lewis post op.

I am a 78 year old man and i had an Ivor Lewis operation in January. The first couple o months were difficult because my digestive tract veered from constipation to diarrhea with no logic on what I ate. This together with not being able to exercise resulted in a feeling of depression. Having to eat small meals frequently meant there was little time for anything else. 7 months after the op I am eating a bit more normally with just small snacks in between meals. The digestion has improved but I still get bouts of diarrhea and pains in my abdomen. I used to take erythromycin 4 times a day but eventually stopped since it didn't make any difference. 

I am being told it's early days and things will improve but I am about 1.5 stone lighter than  before the op and nothing seems to help in gaining weight. 

  • Hello Stegzz48

    I'm sorry to hear that you've had a difficult time since your Ivor Lewis operation earlier this year. It's a major surgery, and I know from the posts I've read here in the Cancer Chat community over the years that many people struggle with their weight in the months following this operation. 

    Problems with eating after surgery and weight loss are recognised side effects of this treatment, and sometimes it can take many, many months to see a marked improvement. While it may not feel like it, 7 months since your surgery is still early days in the journey of recovery, and it's really positive to hear that you're able to eat a bit more normally and your digestion has improved. 

    If you think it may hel pto chat with one of our nurses, you're most welcome to give them a call. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. They're available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 0808 800 4040. 

    Hopefully over the coming months you'll continue to see improvements and will feel more confident about your recovery. Keep in touch and let us know how you get on Stegzz48. We're here for you.

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator