Plerual Effusion

Hi All,

As I am part of this forum, I need your advice for a doubt.

As My father was Diagnosed with stage 4 of EC in Oct 2008, followed by 6 chemo and surgry. after first follow up he is doing good. some days back he got some  fluid in his right lung. after some test it was plerual effusion an negative for meligancy.(some side effects like cough and fever, Now in control after some medicines)

He is  also lost a big ampunt of weight and got the habit of Snoring,will it affect anyhow ? how to cop up with it.

what can be the various ways to get a good health ahead.

Regards,

Deep

I am glad they got the fluid in the lung under control.  I also had pleural effusion, as we talked in one of your last posts.  The main thing is that the fluid tested negative for cancer.    Make sure he exercises and sits up enough during the daytime.  Exercise and protein help get the fluid out.

I agree that you need to make sure he is not aspirating.  Aspirating  is when the stomach contents come up and go down the windpipe.  That is one reason the wedge in bed is so important.

I wonder about the position your dad sleeps in too.  If his neck is somewhat crooked while he sleeps this could cause the snoring.  Snoring probably is not a problem except for those who have to listen.  See if you can get a better wedge for his bed and perhaps a pillow that will support his neck better.   Make sure the head of his bed is raised a couple of inches or more.

As far a good health ahead, it is time.  It will take time for his body to heal and for him to gain weight.  Just keep him eating and moving. Best wishes.  I am sure others will have some good tips for you too.

Hi,

Thanks for your replies.

As he sleeps on 20 to 30 degree of angle on neck and with straight position.

will this fluid can create any side effect if it more ? as we have taken it out with needle and very less is inside the lungs. and please tell me Snoring can affect any how ?

Rgds,

Deep

Personally, I don't think his snoring poses any danger to him.  Read this article http://www.entnet.org/HealthInformation/snoring.cfm

However, why don't you check with his doctor and this will give you peace of mind.  While you are checking, ask his doctor about the fluid build up and your fears.  Peace of mind is very important for the caregiver and your concerns are very normal.  All caregiveres feel very responsible for their loved one and when something happens it is easy to think the worst. 
Is your dad's doctor "approachable" and friendly? 

This is a good article on pleural effusion: http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/pleural_effusion/ts_

When you read it, remember not to fear the worst but understand it for the best.  

I had my lungs drained twice. It certainly is not pleasant, but was necessary.  I was certainly fortunate I did not need to have it done again. 
If he is sitting up, walking some and getting some exercise, the fluid should continue to be absorbed by the body.  If it seems to be building up again and he has difficulty breathing, then the doctors may need to do something.  As long as he is doing as well as he is, try to give him time to heal.  It is a very slow recovery for some people.  It took me 8 months to recover.  Some people recover quicker.    Always consult the doctors when you suspect something unusual is happening.  It is worth a phone call.

Hi,

 Thanks for your advice. I am very happy to get some positive responce from this forum. I am also trying to check the new ways of get healthy in all ways after Surgry.

Rgds,

Deep