Friday, May 15, 2009

Dumping

Side effects this time seem to have lasted longer. One that I have not had before is associated with meals. After eating, I feel faint and shocky so that I have to lie down. I have a rapid pulse and start sweating. I also get strong bowel activity with rumbling noises. This all sounds very like the dumping syndrome seen after gastric surgery. I am guessing that it is caused by damage to the intestinal mucosa by 5-FU that allows simple sugars to pass rapidly into the blood stream, and this causes a release of insulin. Presumably the remedy is to eat food with a low glycemic index. No more mashed potatoes and French Fries.
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2 comments:

  1. Anonymous15 May, 2009 23:04

    Dietary changes are a good place tio start. Consider exploring use of octreotide, especially if the diarrhea persists.

    Good luck,

    DWCLL

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  2. Marcia17 May, 2009 06:09

    I hope the diet is working. Those sound like scary effects! I have a friend with hypoclycemia who always considers glycemic index, and does pretty well.

    Prayers are with you.

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