Chemo for esophagus cancer: Any advice on things I should or not do?

Posted by fracturedd @fracturedd, Sep 5, 2021

I was recently diagnosed with Adenocarcinoma of the esophagus with her2 “positive”. I’ve been on one chemo pill and one infusion. The pills gave me ulcers in my colon along with every other side effect and I ended up in the ICU for 2 nights- 7 night hospital stay. Since then they haven’t started me on the chemo pills again (they said I need a break to heal) so I’m only on the infusion. My follow up pet scan is wed and I’m scared that only being on the one infusion just wasn’t enough. I’m trying to stay positive. Anyone have any advice as far as extra supplements or things I should or shouldn’t do. As of now I’m walking, take curcumin, vit d, acupuncture, cbd oil, that’s really it. Any positive info would be appreciated.

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Esophageal Cancer Support Group.

survivorsuz | @survivorsuz | Sep 5, 2021

I’m in agreement with Colleen to be open with your oncologist about anything you are taking over-the-counter.
Talking with a dietitian helped me find things that were nutritious but easy to digest. Also eat very small portions frequently.
Walking outside on flat ground like a parking lot helped me mentally to achieve a little more each day and felt a little more normal. Lying in the sofa was mentally sombering and digestion was better with more movement.
Keep positive and ask your oncology team lots of questions & share concerns. There are sometimes alternatives that can help by adjusting the frequency or dosage of treatment plans. It requires you to discuss your experiences with your team.
There will be rough days but also look towards the end result of good health again.
I was diagnosed 2019 and have had chemo, radiation, surgery and now lead a relatively normal and happy life. Hopefully you can too!

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | Sep 5, 2021

@fracturedd, I moved your message to this discussion group dedicated to people living with esophageal cancer. I recommend you follow the group and connect with members here:
Esophageal Cancer https://connect.mayoclinic.org/group/esophageal-cancer/

Allow me to introduce you to @lori57216 @davevb @survivorsuz who may have some tips on managing symptoms and wellbeing during chemo. Before taking any supplements, be sure to speak with your oncologist to make sure that they do not negatively interact with the chemo. For example CBD can help with some side effects, but can also lower the effectiveness of some treatments like immunotherapies. Best to check.

Walking sounds good. How much activity are you able to do?