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Posted 9/25/2013 7:59 PM (GMT 0)
I was diagnoised with esophageal cancer in June of 2010. I had the radiation and chemo treatment and even had my esophagus removed stretching my stomache to my collar bone. I find it difficult to eat, and when I do the food seems to get stuck in the middle of my chest and hangs there for hours. I have chronic back pain after the surgery and have been taking pain meds Vicatin and Flexeril for 3 years now. It has not changed since I came out of surgery in Sept of 2010. I am trying to find someone who has gone thru this surgery and cancer and if my systems are the norm for this type of cancer? I have been cancer free since the surgery, but remain tired and constant back pain. Is this the norm?
Posted 9/25/2013 10:11 PM (GMT 0)
Hi Cowboy1,

Welcome to Healing Well!  While there are many here who worry about esophageal cancer, at this point, you're the first to actually have had it. 

I'm very glad to hear you're cancer free, which is key, but sorry you're dealing with such painful symptoms of your surgery. 

I expect you've discussed these things with your doctor...have you tried getting a second opinion?  If you're that uncomfortable, it seems it would be worth a try.

Again, glad that you've joined us!

Best wishes,

Denise

Posted 9/26/2013 1:05 PM (GMT 0)
I wonder if you are experiencing IBS symptoms since the surgery. I have back pain as well and it is because of IBS. I eat a gluten free low lactose, low fiber diet which has helped.
Posted 9/27/2013 2:49 PM (GMT 0)
Cowboy-

I was prepped for the removal surgery you had twice when a tear wouldn't stop leaking. Ever since my tear I get pains in my upper middle back. It was thought to be from the nerve damage done during the tear and surgery.

From what they prepared me for after surgery was that I would have IBS basically because the stomach would be used as an esophagus and they would have to make the opening to the small intestine larger to let food flow into it. Since the stomach doesn't have the same muscle contractions as an esophagus I was told I would feel food sticking as it went down.

I also was told there could be some isuses with the vagus nerve being damaged during surgery.

Sorry to hear of your cancer, but glad to hear it hasn't returned.

Take care,
Bill
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