Hello All,
My father was diagnosed with invasive bladder cancer in February 2016. He under went four rounds of chemotherapy followed by a radical cystectomy with an ileal conduit diversion. Overall, I believe the surgery and the initial weeks following the surgery went as expected. We are now running into several problems which have resulted in readmission into the hospital on several occasions. I would like to hear if others have encountered similar issues.
1. Dramatic weight loss- my father is down 52 lbs in two months (surgery was beginning of September 2016)
2. Recurrent urinary tract infections- what have you all found that has worked best in preventing UTIs. I realize this may a constant battle but I need any tips possible.
3. Dehydration- Every time my father started feeling bad, we go have lab work and the doctors always say he is dehydrate. He drinks constantly but with the new "bladder" and stoma I feel he loses more water. Tips/advice?
4. My father is beginning to get frustrated and down on his luck because he feels as though he is getting worse after the surgery. Please share your journey, hardships, and advice.
I really want to help him get though this and provide the best possible life and outcome for him. He is truly my hero and I want him to get well (or as well as he can to live a good life).
Thank you in advance.
Leslie