Everyone is different and you will hear that phrase over and over as time goes on. Most members began with swallowing difficulties I would guess at about week 4 and it gets progressively more difficult as time goes on. Its a gradual decline, so at least its not like the patient wakes up one day and is unable to swallow. The treatment facility seems to be really excellent with taking the initiative to give your father extra fluids. Almost every center, the patient/caregiver have to request it or its not given. In my opinion, this should be automatic for all OC radiation patients beginning with week 1.

As far as when the N/V/D hits, it usually takes anywhere from 4 - 10 days after the infusion with the 3 bag method. Dont be surprised if the second dose is lowered and the third eliminated. This seems to be fairly common, I did experience this too. When the N begins to hit, give the nausea meds even if he isnt feeling bad. Continue to give them on schedule for days without missing a dose. If you get behind on the meds too often its next to impossible to get ahead of the sickness and when puking its awfully hard to keep the meds down. If V sets in.... remember everything that comes out must go back in, thats in addition to his usual daily intake.

Glad to hear you are ready for some rough days ahead. You will now be known as "the pusher" Do what is necessary for the best interest of your father even if at the moment he does not agree. I tried to quit rads but my son and nurse wouldnt let me. If I had my way I would have stayed in bed and buried my head in the sand and snoozed thru the whole thing until I felt better again. That mentality put me in the hospital. Wish I had my own pusher who could have prevented me from being too stubborn and lazy to get up and eat/drink when I was supposed to.

Hang in there! We are in your corner ready to help you and your father.