If you get a peg tube, are you able to feed yourself or
Does it require a caregiver?

Hi Portland,

While it's much easier to have a caregiver help you, I was able to do it myself as well as clean and flush it when need be.

Mine will be removed next RO visit on Aug. 6th.

Positive thoughts and prayers

"T"

Hi,

I found the PEG quite easy to manage on my own after the 1st day of learning. To allay any concerns, I would suggest you inquire about a home health care visit (maybe a few of them) where a visiting nurse will help with any questions and/or issues you may have after it is installed.

Best,
Nancy

Using the peg tube is very easy and does not require any assistance. However, when you are deep in treatment, you are physically and mentally beat up. The caregiver earns there marks by keeping you on schedule with meds, food, and liquids. Believe me, it is a lot easier to remain lying on the coach, then to get up and prepare food and drink and administer it. I threw up so often I fed in the kitchen near the sink. Cleaning up after that and having to do it again probably will not happen unless someone helps you. Just keep telling yourself, get through this feeding.

You can do it yourself. I stayed alone during my last treatment, and solely used the peg. I just use an open syringe, without the plunger, and let gravity do its job, takes a minute. If you use a pump for feeding, some do, you probably need instructions, maybe a visit from a visiting nurse, but I have no experience with one outside of the hospital.

Normally, Richard and I team tackle the PEG tube. But when I am not around, he is easily able to handle self-administering. We have a gravity pole and kangaroo bags. Aside from the first couple days (when we were unsure and inept), feedings go smoothly. We alternate hydration with the feeding (as Richard right now has a tough time swallowing anything).
Barbara
CG of Richard

Yup peg is a do it yourself thing if you want it to be. But it helps to have someone around hugs

Cheryl,
Was your hemiglossectomy all the way to the base of tongue??

Okay this I can't tell you for sure however I believe it was. I do know I had stitches not only on my tongue but all the way down my throat to my ear canal. I could feel them and during radiation that area was very tight. I had a graft on my oral tongue that included the floor of my mouth on that side.