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Will eating ever be enjoyable again?
I had an esophagectomy over a year now. Mostly I have been able to get food down, but it is always uncomfortable and I find myself just wanting to live off Ensure. Food looks appetizing to me but after 1 bite I am almost done. It feels like there is something blocking my throat all the time. After 1 year post-surgery I finally asked for another dilation. But it did not help at all, which is a mystery.
So, is this the best it can get? I guess I can survive like this. Is it unreasonable to want to improve my swallowing? I'd like to hear others' experiences.
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@bill404 Give it several more months. I had my esophagectomy 12/5 and felt as you do at the two-month mark. Could barely get anything down. But things have improved, and at the seven month mark I’m doing much better. Try to eat more slowly (a half sandwich takes me about 45 minutes), and learn what tends to trigger nausea or dumping, and stay away from those foods for a while. You may be able to eat them later on when you’re feeling better over all. Good luck to you on your journey.
@bill404 definitely get a nutritionist doctor to work with you and work out an exact right meal plan I eat four meals a day. The last one is at 4:30 and I go to sleep at nine and it's a very very small meal so I won't have reflux, but I am on omeprazole you need the exact right amount of salt, carbs, protein, fiber, grains, vegetables, fruit.
@bill404
Can you tolerate dairy? Are you drinking any protein shakes or smoothies? I supplement with Fairlife Core Power which has 42 grams of protein and 230 calories.
Eating will be normal. Instead of stuffing yourself in 1 sitting, you eat more, multiple times a day.
Also, I have found that you should eat more slowly.
From not being able to eat anything for a while, then having surgery, eating is enjoyable. Enjoy it, take your time eating, and don't be in a rush to finish. Also, drink only sips of whatever you like to drink during dinner.
@naoshapiro1 Did you try elevating your bed about 10-12 inches at the head? On Amazon, they sell wedges for the bed, and you can still use your pillow. It helps a lot.
You should eat slowly also. I eat about 5-6 meals a day. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, but in between I have snacks. I originally lost about 40 lbs after surgery (no complaints here). So far, I've gained about 6 back. It takes time. I enjoy my meals more. Also, don't drink too much during your meals.
Also, between bites, put your fork down, take your time, chew more, and just enjoy it.
@mrgvw is the Zoom call every Sunday? I'd love to hear how others are doing
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Our twice-weekly EC and Esophagectomy Zoom calls NEVER change:
Wednesdays 6pm Eastern
Sundays 9am Eastern
Here's the one-touch Zoom link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/4550284795