should we go to ER ?

[pacergal]

Do you have a follow up with the dr who did the biopsy or your PCP soon? They can explain in detail the CT scan and biopsy results, and what it means.

 

[Car-Guy]

Honestly, anything we would say here would only be speculation. It's hard to wait, but that's what I would suggest. Speak with those following your DW's case. They will explain everything that they know from the scan.

God's blessing on you and DW. We are here for you.

+1 Hopefully by the end of today (or very soon) you will have some professional assessments/diagnosis/prognosis/options.

 

[ER_Hopeful]

Do you have a follow up with the dr who did the biopsy or your PCP soon? They can explain in detail the CT scan and biopsy results, and what it means.

primary doc said he'll call me this week, i guess i'm just trying to jump the gun and can't wait for things to start happening.

 

[Katiek]

I just saw this thread now, but I'm glad you were proactive and went to the ER and my thoughts are with you.



Someone else mentioned that you should feel free to take notes during meetings, and I second that suggestion. The medical world can be overwhelming, and you're already so drained from what's going on. I strongly suggest getting a small notebook or field guide that you carry with you everywhere. Take notes, record names, write down "to do's" . When they tell you stuff, it's easy to assume you'll remember it because it's so important, but you're getting hit with a tsunami of information and emotions. It's natural not to remember things.


We are here to listen or to be a place to vent if you need a release. Good luck. I'll be praying for you and your wife.

 

[mystang52]

biopsy result should come out today. will be calling couple places (the oncologist, UCLA, City of Hope).


trying to understand the CT scan report (became available online yesterday), it seems to say there's no pancreatic tumor but the tumors are in the pelvic instead? If anyone can explain the major issues to me, I'll greatly appreciate it. thank you so much.

Unless a doctor on this site can send you a PM, it would be imprudent of anyone else to interpret the report, and you shouldn't rely on such interpretation. As hard as it is, wait until you can discuss with your doctor. If I can add a suggestion: use your cell phone or separate recording device to record the discussion. I believe that is much better than taking hand-written notes. Better yet, have another person with you to discuss anything with the doctor. Best wishes to you and your wife during this difficult time.

 

[Koolau]

primary doc said he'll call me this week, i guess i'm just trying to jump the gun and can't wait for things to start happening.

I don't blame you at all. You go into "fight" mode when threatened and it's hard to hold back and wait. But waiting is what you must do. Of course, if you can "push" a bit, I think most medical professionals will understand.



Blessings.

 

[calmloki]

Unless a doctor on this site can send you a PM, it would be imprudent of anyone else to interpret the report, and you shouldn't rely on such interpretation. As hard as it is, wait until you can discuss with your doctor. If I can add a suggestion: use your cell phone or separate recording device to record the discussion. I believe that is much better than taking hand-written notes. Better yet, have another person with you to discuss anything with the doctor. Best wishes to you and your wife during this difficult time.

Totally agree. Try out how to do a recording so you are quick and facile, then you can focus on the conversation while being able to go back and fact check/absorb more info from what was said.

Best to you both -

 

[Aerides]

Unless a doctor on this site can send you a PM, it would be imprudent of anyone else to interpret the report, and you shouldn't rely on such interpretation. As hard as it is, wait until you can discuss with your doctor.

And I do hope any of our non-expert members resist the urge to attempt anything, it would not be appropriate.

If I can add a suggestion: use your cell phone or separate recording device to record the discussion. I believe that is much better than taking hand-written notes. Better yet, have another person with you to discuss anything with the doctor. Best wishes to you and your wife during this difficult time.

But do write down your questions in advance. Have your list in front of you, and make sure you get everything covered.

 

[steelyman]

If I can add a suggestion: use your cell phone or separate recording device to record the discussion. I believe that is much better than taking hand-written notes.

This is a very good suggestion. I did this recently with a specialist to whom I was referred. I did make sure to ask her for permission first (she was total thumbs up).

 

[ER_Hopeful]

went to see oncologist yesterday, he thinks according to ct scan, it's ovary cancer but need to wait for biopsy results.



wife is in very poor shape, very fatigue because everything she eats causes bloating even though she is taking beano and gas relief. anyone knows of any remedy or this , truly appreciate it. Please feel free to give advice, we're willing to try anything.


One of our relatives suggested yellow dragonfruit (available at a Korean grocery store) for her constipation, it's working so far. prescription stool softener didn't help.

 

[badatmath]

I can't say how this would affect the constipation part but isn't she on a diuretic for the excess fluid? Or did they drain that off and it is not an issue? (Thinking we could have dual issue)

 

[mystang52]

went to see oncologist yesterday, he thinks according to ct scan, it's ovary cancer but need to wait for biopsy results.



wife is in very poor shape, very fatigue because everything she eats causes bloating even though she is taking beano and gas relief. anyone knows of any remedy or this , truly appreciate it. Please feel free to give advice, we're willing to try anything.


One of our relatives suggested yellow dragonfruit (available at a Korean grocery store) for her constipation, it's working so far. prescription stool softener didn't help.

Early on you had asked about Support groups. Maybe pose the question there? You may find someone who has gone through this, and had a successful experience dealing with this issue.

 

[RetiredHappy]

went to see oncologist yesterday, he thinks according to ct scan, it's ovary cancer but need to wait for biopsy results.



wife is in very poor shape, very fatigue because everything she eats causes bloating even though she is taking beano and gas relief. anyone knows of any remedy or this , truly appreciate it. Please feel free to give advice, we're willing to try anything.


One of our relatives suggested yellow dragonfruit (available at a Korean grocery store) for her constipation, it's working so far. prescription stool softener didn't help.

If it is indeed ovarian cancer, unfortunately bloating, gas and constipation are typical symptoms.

I take bananas when I am constipated.

 

[whatnot]

So sorry to hear of your wife’s healthcare situation.
Sending healing thoughts your way. Stay strong.

 

[Morgan22]

For constipation she could try MiraLAX powder.
If she drinks coffee or other hot drinks, she can put it in that and it will dissolve almost immediately. Then it becomes easy to drink, no taste.

 

[bbbamI]

When I need to find information regarding cancer, I go to the American Cancer Society website.

https://www.cancer.org/

 

[GoBears]

This is a very good suggestion. I did this recently with a specialist to whom I was referred. I did make sure to ask her for permission first (she was total thumbs up).

ER_Hopeful, since you are near LA you should be aware that California law requires consent of all parties to record a conversation. I’m hoping all goes well for your wife and you.

 

[Koolau]

In general, I use Psyllium Fiber for regularity - Costco has it in capsule form. BUT I would run that by her doctor to see if would be appropriate. It really w*rks for me without being a stimulant but YMMV.

 

[pacergal]

Have you tried an anti-acid? Sometimes stomach acid can cause increased gas or feeling of stomach bloat.
Rolaids Advanced has both antacid and simethicone.

Avoiding gas producing foods, depending on her appetite, some listed here:
beans and legumes
asparagas, broccoli, cabbage, brussellese sprouts onions
peas
sweet potato
some fruits such as apricots, mango, pears plums, dried apricots and prunes
some grains such as wheat, barley

Many listed also help with constipation, so it's difficult.

Probiotics may help, either via pills you can buy or
natural, live cultured yogurt
kefir
small amount (1-2 teaspoon) Braggs Apple cider vinegar with the mother( can add to tea with a bit of honey)

I hope your wife is having some symptoms ease and you find your answers soon.
Then. you both can work with the doctors for a plan of care

My thoughts are with you.

 

[Lemonade]

@ER_Hopeful

Thinking of you and your wife these days. I hope your hearts and minds are able to find some peace as you move forward.

 

[ER_Hopeful]

Thanks to you all who have helped us navigate this difficult time and kept us in your prayers, my wife condition has been improving so I can finally sit down and do a quick recap.

We actually went to the ER 3 times. on the 3rd time, she was admitted and was inpatient for 5 days (early Oct). There she got the fluid drained from her right lung (was coughing like crazy), a port implanted in her chest and had her first chemo. (Biopsy confirmed it was ovarian cancer, not pancreatic cancer which was very good news.) She'll be getting the standard carbo/taxol regiment of 6 cycles with one cycle/3 weeks.

The first week after the first chemo was pretty tough for her since she was already in poor condition, in addition to the bloating, poor appetite, constipation, now she had vomiting, she was bed-bound most of the time. But around day 8, she had hit rock bottom and things started to turn around, vomiting/fatigue faded away and she was able to eat a little.

We just past week 2, she now can eat almost normal food (we tried to make food extra soft/tender, boot the protein, vitamins etc. She is a a little anemic so adding pork liver to the diet.) As far as wellness, no more cough/vomitting/bloating, some constipation/tiredness but she is able to do some light yard work and take short walks now.

We also switched to City of Hope a week ago, they have pretty good rankings nationwide. will be seeing a gynec oncologist this coming week who will give us guidance on the surgical removal of the tumor. CoH has been fantastic!

Thanks again to all!

ps. I wasn't much a religious person but I've been going to church with my aunt since this thing started.

 

[mystang52]

Thanks for the update, and so glad things are looking up.

 

[FlaGator]

Encouraging news, thanks for letting us know.

 

[pacergal]

Thank you for the update.
Know that we are all thinking of you and your wife, praying for good recovery and outcome.

 

[wdwwildbill]

Lots of prayers your way. Glad to hear she is improving ....