I had mine out in the summer of 2004 (at 24), they were enlarged, I had frequent sore throats and stones. The first 2 weeks following the surgery were horrible, the pain was strong and I would even choke when drinking liquid. I went back to work after 3 weeks. I took some liquid medication, even had liquid codein for a few days. Now, I don't regret having the surgery...only 2 weeks of intense torture.
My mother had fluid around her heart (pericardial effusion) causing her shortness of breath and it diminished after a few chemo treaments (if I remember, there's not cancer cells in the fluid). The onc told her about a procedure called 'pericardial window' to drain the fluid, but it wasn't necessary.
Anaïs
My mother lost 15-20 pounds too the first 3 months. Her oncologist suggested Ensure drinks (a complete and balanced nutrition, source of vitamins, proteins, calories, etc.). There's a few flavors (vanilla, strawberry, chocolate). It helps to gain weight and it gives energy.
Mitchell,
I read in one of your first posts that you're only 24. My mother was d/x when I was 22, my brother was 19.
It's hard for young people like us to see our parents with a serious illness.
If you want to talk about it, don't hesitate to PM or e-mail me... Btw I'm from Montreal, Canada.
Anaïs