Update

[DellaTee]

Hi Everyone,

Just an update to say Mammy is getting her chemo started today We were very nervous about her appointment this morning and were worried maybe the infection hadn't cleared or her bloods would be low so are really happy she's getting started. She didn't have the best week, is quite weak and has lost more weight. I think a lot of this may be down to the ascites as it still hasn't been drained - she has had bad bloating for amost 7/8 weeks now, as mentioned attempts have been made but since the ascites is in pockets it has been too dangerous. Do you think the chemo will help with ascites and pleural effusion, I have read a few places that it might? I'm a little concerned the chemo will totally knock her as she already seems a bit weak before even getting it. Feeling grateful though that things are at least getting started. Another week would have been too long to wait especially with the ascites, weight loss and pleural effusion!

Hope everyone else is keeping well.

D x

[Lyndy]

Hi DellaTee

I can only tell you that I had pleural effusion and horrendous ascites before my first chemo and yes initially it knocked me but I felt soo much better when it began to work...ate like a horse most of the time. Hopefully your Mum will also feel the benefits soon xx

[DellaTee in reply to Lyndy]

Thanks so much for the quick response Lyndy! Great to hear from others that had similar symptoms xx

[Seasun36-uk]

Hi Della, I had ascites & a pleural effusion & both seemed to start improving almost straight away after my first chemotherapy. ATB to your mum. Linda xx

[DellaTee in reply to Seasun36-uk]

Thanks so much Linda, really helps knowing others were in a similar position and improved. Hope you're all doing well. x

[Katmal-UK]

Hi D. Didn't have ascites left after surgery of a pleural effusion but I have heard so many times that once the chemo kicks in the situation greatly improves, as I hope it does for your mum. Hopefully once the chemo does it's job you will see an improvement in your mum (just takes time). Sending you a hug. Kathy xx

[Hidden]

The steroids given at the same time as chemo do help improve the appetite. Remember to let mum eats anything that takes her fancy. Little and often xx

[Nicky911]

Hi - my pleural effusion disappeared during chemo and my breathing improved. Best Wishes to your Mum xxx

[ShropshireJo]

Don’t forget to make sure she stays very well hydrated, particularly after chemo so that the fluid can keep her kidneys flushed. I learned the hard way! All the best to you both. Jo 🌸🌺🌼🌻🌹