Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Health update.

I have not been very well since I came off the Capecitabine. I did not have the recovery that I had had last time. It will be at least 3 weeks until I get the monoclonal antibody. I reasoned that I ought to have some maintenance therapy to tide me over the gap and decided after two weeks without any treatment to take half dose Capecitabine. This was a mistake. The abdominal pain and bloating kicked in with a vengeance.

To remedy this I have had a couple of days on clear fluids, more bed rest, dexamethasone 6mg, and I've bought some bigger shirts to accommodate my expanded waistline. Things are gradually getting better, but I shall have to start eating again soon.

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

sorry to hear of your ongoing woes. Does the increased abdominal girth reflect acites or distention of the intestines or both?

Jorge said...

Prof. I wish you quicker recovery.Thank you for your posts.

Anonymous said...

Dear Terry,
Its difficult to know what to say. When I read of the setbacks in your health or treatment I feel very sad. I've been longing for news of 'all clear'. What is truely inspiring is your response to the difficult trials and tribulations that beset you.
much love
J

Terry Hamblin said...

Both I expect.

Paula said...

So sorry to hear that things are not going well, healthwise.

Anonymous said...

Praying God will give you renewed strength and relief from your discomforts. Your support of and tender patience in counseling those with CLL continues to be a blessing. Praying He makes all things manageable for you.

Manu Manickvel said...

well, doc, i would just like to recall the old saying - God give me the strength to change the things i can, and the serenity to accept those i cannot; and the wisdom to know the difference...seems to me you are wise...

Dan Cullen, Westchester, NY said...

Dr. Hamblin,

I though the 'time off" would help your body purge itself of some adverse treatment effects, particularly cleansing of the kidneys & liver.

Out of curiosity, what are the "clear fluids" you've subsisted on?

Hopefully you're improving.

Terry Hamblin said...

I was on water and fruit juice; I have now migrated to milky fluids, soups and 'murky' fluids with more carbohydrates in them.