Appointment with Radiologist

[Lmax]

Attended hospital today for first appointment with radiologist who advised that I could have a “one off “ dose of radiology to hopefully shrink the tumour on my right lung to prevent it spreading into the spinal cord (it has attached itself to my spine already). Have to attend the hospital tomorrow afternoon for the procedure. Apparently can’t have other treatments because of the state of my lungs so this is palliative care. Really, really disappointed that there isn’t any other option but at least something is being done to hopefully prevent further damage and buying me more time; have to try and keep positive even though I am worried sick.

[Hidden]

Hi sorry to read about issues having HAVE thought about operations myself AND what I would do given state of my lungs

I have considered stuff like this in link ... usaly is easer said that done tho.

dailymail.co.uk/health/arti...

Hope radiation works for you

[Lmax in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for reply. Was told years ago that I wouldn't be able to have a general anaesthetic because of my lungs so just have to be thankful that something can be tried to stop the spread and pray that it works.

[Hidden in reply to Lmax]

Hi i was told same .. more that go's wrong the more you worry about other conditions that might need operation.

Hope it all go's well and the nuke it to oblivion for ya

[Lmax in reply to Hidden]

Have read the link you mentioned in your reply - don't know whether I could cope with being awake knowing my lungs were being operated on! I had some surgery on one of my hands some years ago under a local anaesthetic which felt quite weird. The local anaesthetic hurt more than anything else - felt like my arm was on fire.

[Hidden in reply to Lmax]

Have been quite lucky never needed operation BUT now have lung issues and now throat issues.

Guess operation well not on cards for me.

I think i would be ok really as long as i could not see out.

[Lmax in reply to Hidden]

Best to wait and see what your doctors say needs to be done before worrying about what might happen - so says the world's worst worrier!!

Best wishes.

[2greys]

Of course you are worried, it is natural. I would be lying to say that I am not worried too. The fact is that being worried is not going to help one bit. It is what it is. Radiotherapy is not the last stop, there is Chemotherapy as well.

I am not that far behind you in receiving Radiotherapy for lung cancer myself, having had to turn down surgery because of the poor odds. You are not alone. There are others here who have undergone the procedure successfully.

It is perfectly okay to talk about your cancer worries here, I am sure you will get the the same support and encouragement of the group that I have. Cancer no longer has the stigma that it once had many years ago.

Best of luck for tomorrow.

[Lmax in reply to 2greys]

Thanks for your reply. Unfortunately radiotherapy is the only treatment available for me according to the doctors at the moment because my lungs are in such a poor state anyway. But hopefully it will prevent the spread of the tumour before it does even more damage and gives me more time to spend with my family who have been so supportive.

[Carnival567]

I hope the radiotherapy helps and makes life better for you xx

[Watfordgirl]

I’m sorry Lmax, and I’m not surprised you’re worried. It’s a horrible situation to be in. .

It’s worth remembering that although this is new to you, it’s not new to the radiologist. Others will have been in a similar situation. And radiotherapy is expensive - even one dose. They wouldn’t do it if they didn’t feel it would help you. And although it’s only one day it does go on working for about four weeks, having further impact on your tumour. Drink plenty of water because it can dehydrate you.

If you’ve been told this is palliative care, have you been referred to a palliative care team? If not, speak to your GP or consultant. They can help you in all sorts of practical ways and also support you with your worries and concerns.

Good luck. Sue xxx

[Lmax]

Just returned home from radiotherapy treatment which wasn’t too bad - just uncomfortable having to lie perfectly still on what seemed like a bed of concrete! Have been referred to local palliative care team who have been very helpful, in fact everything seems to be swinging into action (I just need to keep up!!) and I’m now going to sit down with a cuppa to reflect on what has been going on. Thanks for all the good wishes and support from everyone - much appreciated.

[mskpjb in reply to Lmax]

We'll always be here, day or night, ready to listen. So glad you didn't find the radiotherapy treatment too bad. Keep your chin up sweetheart, love, Sheila xx

[Ergendl]

((((Hugs)))) Lmax

[Dedalus]

Hope it goes well and there is a good outcome for you - good luck for the appointment x

[Lmax in reply to Dedalus]

Thanks for support. Feeling very tired today and have some pain in the shoulder area which the radiologist said would happen, so nothing I wasn't expecting. Told to take normal painkillers until it eases - I will rattle with all of the medication I have to take - but if it keeps me going, I will carry on.