Loss of weight

[1122334455321]

Is it normal to loose weight while on chemo for Adenocarcinoma despite eating frequently and having a good balanced diet? A reply would be appreciated.

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[jillygirl]

Hi1122334455321, Sorry I am no expert, so can not give you a definate reply. After browsing the internet It seems that the Adenocarcinoma and the chemo can cause weight loss.

If you have a specialist nurse assigned to you he/she may be able to help. Otherwise have a word with your GP.

Take care. xx

[1122334455321 in reply to jillygirl]

Many thanks for your prompt reply, much appreciated.

[Hidden]

Hi there,

I've just checked with one of the Lung Cancer Specialist nurses, and he says that weight loss is common during chemotherapy. He says you should eat what you like, when you like, add cream, have full fat milk and add extra calories wherever you can. It might also be a good idea to be referred to a dietician, for extra supplements.

I hope this helps,

Best wishes,

Beth, on behalf of information and support.

[1122334455321 in reply to Hidden]

Thank you so much Beth for your very helpful reply - much appreciated.

[hedgehoggy]

Hi I lost a stone in weight on chemo because I found it difficult to eat and my usual foods tasted quite different. My fad was to drink lemon tea by the bottle it was the only thing I could drink and I love my cuppa tea. I did need to lose a stone though but it has now gone back on. I feel I had to drink lots of soft but not citrus drinks to flush the chemicals through my system if that makes sense. After 2 years I am feeling well if a little still overweight.

[davidrwarren]

Don't think it is necessarily connected to the chemo. The cancer cells themselves consume oxygen and nutrients, making their own blood supply as they grow. Also, the body metabolism has to work that much harder trying to conquer the cancer - leaving less to build up in storage. If you are on steroids as well, these can have a secondary effect of reducing muscle mass. Weight loss during all stages of lung cancer is very common. My wife lost 2 stone very quickly and weight refuses to go back on (she is off standard chemo now and on an EGF Inhibitor targeted therapy).

[tilstongal]

Yes it is. My Macmillan nurse said I would inevitably lose weight. As bethcochrane says add extra calories to everything you need the extra the fight the disease.

Good luck!

Tilstongal

[topgun]

How I wish it were true in my case! I've actually put on 6Kg since starting chemo in March! I'm currently on Permetrexed maintenance and have only just got my weight to stabilise. This is despite a reduction in food intake due to lots of food tasting or smelling bad to me.

[topgun]

How I wish it were true in my case! I've actually put on 6Kg since starting chemo in March! I'm currently on Permetrexed maintenance and have only just got my weight to stabilise. This is despite a reduction in food intake due to lots of food tasting or smelling bad to me.