TAnn Posted April 21, 2004 Share Posted April 21, 2004 Well, the update on my Denver catheter is that it seems to be working. We have drained fluid daily for 2 weeks and the last 2 nights have not been able to get much fluid at all, about 100cc's. Had a chest x-ray today and it showed very little fluid left, which is very good. HOWEVER, I have been experiencing such bad pain with each drain and also just pain in that lung all the time, that they finally prescribed me a strong pain killer. I haven't gotten much sleep, can't get comfortable, or wake up in pain, so hopefully these pills will help with that. I'm usually not one to take the strong stuff... The goal is to keep the fluid out long enough so that the membranes form a "seal" and no more fluid will accumulate. The bottom portion of my lung looks like it still has not been able to expand back to normal. This could be due to scarring, or just the fact that it has been compressed for so long from the fluid. This may be the cause of some of my pain. Anyway, once I go a couple of weeks without being able to drain, then they probably will take out the tube. I have a ct scan next week and then we will tell if I get to remain on the study drug and on my "chemo break"! TAnn Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MO_Sugar Posted April 21, 2004 Share Posted April 21, 2004 TAnn, Glad it is working for you. I know the pain you are talking about and it does HURT when the lung tries to re-expand. Best wishes that it will seal up on it's own. God Bless, MO Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
carlton Posted April 22, 2004 Share Posted April 22, 2004 H TAnne Sorry you are uncomfortable with the pain know how you feel but the important thing is it is working for you. Hope the meds will help you so you can get some good sleep. i know how it feels not to be able to find a spot thats comfortable and be able to get some good sleep, you take care and pleasant dreams. Carlton Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
-Cheryl- Posted April 22, 2004 Share Posted April 22, 2004 God Bless you TAnn. I am so sorry that you are having to go through this much pain. I do hope the meds offer you some relief, and that the lung seals as well. Cheryl Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Nancy B Posted April 22, 2004 Share Posted April 22, 2004 TAnn, prayers going your way. Love and hugs, Nancy B Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TBone Posted April 22, 2004 Share Posted April 22, 2004 I too am sorry that you are in this much pain.I am glad the procedure worked for you.Don't be afraid to use the pain meds.There is no sense being in misery.I have a continuos pain in my right leg and without the pain meds I don't know what I would do.Just be careful about constipation with their use.I take a laxative with every dose.Praying for us all..TBone Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
mhutch1366 Posted April 22, 2004 Share Posted April 22, 2004 TAnn, Sorry you're not sleeping well. I sometimes sleep much better in the recliner sitting up hugging a pillow, feet elevated. That might help. TBone is right on two accounts. No reason to be in pain, and don't let the meds plug you up. Hoping you can sleep better soon, XOXOX MaryAnn Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Phyllis Posted April 22, 2004 Share Posted April 22, 2004 I am sorry too that you are having so much trouble. Not being able to sleep and being doped up on pain medicine is the worst feeling. Would a nice hot heating pad help. I hope you feel better soon. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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