Mood Swings

Hi,  My sister is 48 and was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer in April this year.  She had a resection of her colon.  And is now on her 3rd cockail treatment.  I live in Georgia and came out to LA to visit her and help take care of her.  I was out here for her colon surgery.  This time I brought my 8 yr.old so, we can all spend some time together.  However, my sister's mood has been swinging from being very talkative to angry and very hard to work with.  I know this is very very hard on her and I don't know what I can do for her.  At this point I am thinking of cutting our trip from 2 1/2 weeks to 1 week.  Does anyone have any advice?  

You may have her talk to her doctor about it.  I know I was in a depressed state for several months before I finally broke down and let the doctor put me on Paxil.  I would get very stressed out doing everyday things and my kids would get on my nerves within minutes of them coming home.  I would also cry at the drop of a hat.

The paxil has really helped, but having someone to talk to about it all also helps.  Maybe you could help your sister find a counselor and go with her the first time.  You have to remember that her life spun way out of her control not too long ago.  She may feel angry or confused and you are a "safe" person for her to let down her guard with.  Give her some space and time, but I wouldn't cut the trip short.

My husband is on a steriod to help with the nausea.  My family also noticed mood swings but he was much easier to be around after about day 5.   Please be patient with your sister and give the visit a chance.  My husband is on his fourth of twelve treatments and we are finally settling into a pattern were the children are with their friends over the weekend becuase of the anxiety he feels after day 2 through 5 of his treatment.  I don't know if this is common but this is the best way for our family to handle hie treatment.

Keep positive thoughts.

 LJ