Dont stop the pain meds. In fact many including myself have used the fentanyl patch for pain. It was so much easier and provided a steady dose of the pain meds. The doc can give yo a prescription for it. The patch lasts 72 hours before it needs to be changed. It will take about 24 hours to kick in when you first put it on. If you get the patch, read and follow the directions to the letter. No long hot steamy baths or showers or it can release too much medicine. Never cut, tear or fold the patch. Then your doc can give you some liquid pain meds for any breakthru pain.

Have you tried pineapple juice or karo syrup yet? They really will work for the little c. Just to warn you, karo syrup is sugar and you mentioned trying to avoid it right now.

Sounds like you are doing very well with eating and drinking, keep up the good work!!!!