A New complication!

[Grasscutters]

My husband was diagnosed with PC in 2013, PSA 18, Gleason 4+3. Possible small met on pelvis. This was treated with radiotherapy. On Decapeptyl 6 monthly injections, and over the years, Xgeva, Xtandi and for the past couple of years, Erleada.

Unfortunately, due to stomach surgery 2 years ago, where his vagus nerve was cut, he has now developed gastroporesis. This causes constant nausea and vomiting and he can eat very little.

His PSA, which has been 0.03 has gradually increased and 6 months ago was 6.0. We are due to see his Urologist in a few weeks time. I would add he is now in great deal of pain with a sciatic type pain.

As he vomits twice a day, I do wonder if this is affecting his Erleada from being digested.

Anyone else with PC + Gastroporesis?

[Pirate3]

I don't have any experience with your situation but it does stand to reason that his regular vomiting is affecting absorption of the drug. My other thought is that it seems your husband may really benefit from the care of a medical oncologist, if not an oncologist that specializes in prostrate care.Many blessings to you and your husband.

[Grasscutters in reply to Pirate3]

Thank you for responding! I feel so helpless in this situation. This gastroporesis is so debilitating, I am dreading the result of his PSA test which we will have prior to seeing the Consultant in a few weeks time. His PC has responded well to the various meds over the years, but with this new diagnosis, as soon as he takes any meds, it hits his stomach and he vomits.

We asked to see an Oncologist, but our Urologist said it was not necessary.

Am trying to stay strong, but it’s difficult sometimes.

[Pirate3 in reply to Grasscutters]

My husband was diagnosed in 2016. I thought our world had ended. It didn’t end but it definitely turned everything inside out and upside down! It is difficult being the partner and feeling as you said, very helpless. Seven years after our diagnosis I still feel unsure of how to best help him. I’ve learned to stand quietly beside him when he is able to advocate for himself but to step up when he needs me to speak out for him. Your husband must be in pure misery and perhaps he may need you to speak up for him now. I’ve learned to ask my husband’s permission first. Of course I don’t know the complexities of your situation but I still respectfully disagree with your husband’s urologist. It seems to me that an oncologist is needed to best manage the rapidly rising PSA as well as the nausea and pain. In my humble opinion your husband’s care needs are beyond the expertise of a urologist.

Be brave. Love is strong.