Hi, my father was diagnosed with cancer in co-junction (food pipe) in 2005. He underwent laproscopy, then chemo and radio therapy and had no trouble for thae last six years. This year Feb, he started having trouble in eating. On checking by CT scan in May , the doc said that there has been a recurrence in other organs. He is undergoing chemotherapy presently, and is facing severe nausea. Any way to control the same, as he is losing weight rapidly.Thanks in advance.. Rajesh
Hi, Thanks for writing in. Chemotherapy medicines are strong, and they kill the cancer cells in the body. Once the cancer cells are destroyed then they are released in to the circulation. When that happens, a lot of toxins are released in to the system. The liver and kidneys help in clearing these cells. These events make the patient weak and the chemotherapy agents also cause side effects which lead to low immunity and weakness. Some patients also develop anemia and infections after chemotherapy. Weight loss also occurs as chemotherapy start s working and the energy requirement in the body increases. The patient needs supportive care at this time. He can be given small protein rich foods at frequent intervals to increase weight. Please ask him his choice of food and give what he can digest easily. Home cooked food is best and give him plenty of water and fresh juices. If he has any pain then give pain relief medicines. Please do not worry.