Esophageal Cancer Support Group
Esophageal cancer is malignancy of the esophagus. There are various subtypes. Esophageal tumors usually lead to dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), pain and other symptoms, and is diagnosed with biopsy. Small and localized tumors are treated with surgery, and advanced tumors are treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or combinations.
It's been 3 and a half months since my surgery and want to know if this is normal? I'm always so bodily weary and can't be bothered doing anything. This is not me and I don't like it !!!
I'm doing ok at work (well I have to) but as far as home life goes that's another saga lol.
If this has happened to anyone how did you work through it? I was told before surgery that there could be some depression so I guess it's happening to me. What gets me is why am I depressed? I know this is a life changing episode ie, sleeping, eating etc in my life so maybe that's it.
I am going to see my primary doctor on Friday so will have a chat to her then.
Cheers
I'm doing ok at work (well I have to) but as far as home life goes that's another saga lol.
If this has happened to anyone how did you work through it? I was told before surgery that there could be some depression so I guess it's happening to me. What gets me is why am I depressed? I know this is a life changing episode ie, sleeping, eating etc in my life so maybe that's it.
I am going to see my primary doctor on Friday so will have a chat to her then.
Cheers
I didn't notice what state you're from, but I know in Ohio (about this time of year) some people get the blahs from the cold weather and shorter days. Ahhhh, spring is coming :-)
I would definitely talk with your Dr. and see what she says. I personally didn't have depression to deal with. I was so overwhelmed with being delighted to be alive that I think that overtook all else.
Good luck to you and maybe someone will post here to help you that has dealt with depression after their surgery. I've read many posts where some people had that to deal with. God bless. Brenda
Although my surgery was over 5 years ago, it still feels like yesterday.
For the first months after surgery, I had very little stamina. Actually, I still have poor stamina compared to what I had before surgery. This has just become the new norm for me.
As far as being depressed, my wife got very depressed. She went to the doctor, and, after a few adjustments in meds, she's pretty-much her old self.
If you feel depressed, chances are you should probably see your doc as soon as you can. And you are absolutely right, this surgery IS life-changing. My surgeon ranked it right up there with the most difficult surgeries. Maybe he was just trying to make me feel good! Who knows?
Still, don't waste time. The sooner you talk to your doc, the sooner the two of you can get you back to normal.
Best of luck with your doc!
Fred
Thank you both for your thoughts. Fred my surgeon said the same thing as yours he this was more complicated that brain surgery lol.
I just wish the doctors, surgeons or whoever would tell you that this type of surgery will take a long time to get over and don't expect too much from yourself.
So once again both of you thank you for being there for me - it does make a difference you know :)
Cheers
My cancer has resulted in one esophagectomy and two awake craniotomies (brain surgery). It all adds up to 23.5 hours of surgery. Like Brenda, I too am delighted with still being alive. Just be happy!
Patrick
Every morning that I open my eyes is a blessing!!!!
Cheers Annie