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ovarian cancer advice

EmmaE
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my mum got diagnoised with stage 3 ovarian cancer about 6 weeks ago she has suffered a lot like everyone does she has struggled with having fluid drained from her stomach the 1st lot was 6ltrs drained and a week later it was 2ltrs she had her first chemo last monday the 1st few days she was fine but she has had to go back into hospital for the 3rd time in the last 5 days i dnt no if anyone has suffered the same for advice but she has struggled with eating and drinking she cant eat a thing the best she can managed is maybe 2 spoonfuls porridge in the morning and maybe 2/3 jelly babies for the rest of the day she has tunred to skin and bone we have tryed everything to try and help her to eat but she just cant she could go days with out food and she is so weak thats why she is back into hospital as she cant walk as her legs feel like they are given way and she has terrible headaches and feels like her head is cold but its not to touch im just trying to see if anyone has experinced the same or something like this for some advice many thanks :)

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    Hello EmmaE,

    Welcome to Cancer Chat. It must be so tough for you at the moment to see your mum go through all this and eating so little.

    We do have some information on our site on diet problems with cancer which may give you some helpful suggestions on how to cope with eating and drinking difficulties.

    Don't hesitate also to ring our knowledgeable nurses on this free number 0808 800 4040 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

    I know that many of our forum members have also worried about a loved one not eating, so I will let them now do all the talking and I am sure they will have a lot to share with you.

    Best wishes,

    Lucie, Cancer Chat Moderator

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    Hi EmmaE;

     

    Your mother's weakness is very normal at this time. Because she lost belly liters of fluid from her abdomen. This fluid in not only water, also has important minerals and molecules etc.

    But, ovarian cancer will respond very well to chemotherapy and substantially reduced over time, these complaints would think.

    Warm regards.

  • Hello Emma E

    Thanks for your post. I was sorry to read about your mum. This must be a tough time for you both.

    Many people lose their appetite when they have fluid on the abdomen (ascites) because of feeling full and uncomfortable. This can also make them feel quite weak. You can read more about ascites is treated here.

    Chemotherapy can often slow down the ascites coming back and improve symptoms. However, it can also affect the appetite and some people experience taste changes and may go off certain foods.. We do have information on diet problems and cancer here.  

    Some people may benefit from certain supplements and our tips and information on managing diet problems can be found here. 

    Your mum may also benefit from seeing a dietician for specific dietary advice. The hospital or the GP can refer her.

    I hope this is of use. If we can help in any other way please do contact us again. If you would prefer to speak to one of us directly, you can telephone us on 0808 800 4040. We are here Monday to Friday 9am – 5pm.

    Best wishes

    Celene

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