Postby juliej » Thu Sep 21, 2017 6:56 pm
Agree with Lee. Talk to her about hospice and see if she'd rather go in that direction. If she's not quite ready for hospice, then you might have a conversation about "palliative care" and how it will help with her lower back pain, constipation, etc. and make her more comfortable. Some people think they have to put up with pain or physical discomfort. They don't realize how much better they could feel with a little help from meds.
If she waits to see the Consultant "until necessary" it could mean a lot of unnecessary pain and discomfort. If you can talk to her health care team (usually requires permission from the patient), you can describe her symptoms and see what they suggest.
Also, you mentioned she was taking iron tablets. They have a tendency to cause constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort so that might be part of the problem. Make sure she drinks a full glass of water or orange juice with each tablet. OJ is especially good since it contains Vitamin C which increases the body's absorption of iron. A stool softener like Colace might help too.
Clearly, you love your mum and want the best for her. Sending hugs your way!
Juliej
Stage IVb, liver/lung mets 8/4/2010
Xelox+Avastin 8/18/10 to 10/21/2011
LAR, liver resec, HAI pump 11/2011
Adjuvant Irinotecan + FUDR
Double lung surgery + ileo reversal 2/2012
Adjuvant FUDR + Xeloda
VATS rt. lung 12/2012 - benign granuloma!
VATS left lung 11/2013
NED 11/22/13 to 12/18/2019, CEA<1