Hi, Miriam, I'm a little late chiming in here-sorry- but I will relate some of our experiences to you in hopes they will help. To #1. That is a "management" problem, depending on the individual AND which peg nutrition he is on, how much fiber is in it, what other meds he is on that might cause constipation, etc.You really have to be a "Sherlock Holmes" on this one.
#2. Fevers [low grade] under 100.5 can usually be controlled at home with cold compresses and acetaminophen alternating with asperin[if he can tolerate them]. Some fevers are associated with with tx he is on and some are from other problems. We were told that if I could not get John's down to 100.5 over a 24 hr period, then go see the Doc. or call his nurse.
#3. The Erbitux rash was a bear to fight- Head & Shoulders did help, as did Clyndimycin[sp?]. Never rub his skin-always pat dry- We had to stop the Erb. tx on several occasions to get the rash under control.
#4.The radiation issues are going to come and go, as you stated. Every day will be a new day-you just need to be prepared for that.
#5. The morphine will cause constipation-you all need to try various OTC remedies to see what might help there.
#6. Suppliment water, Pedialyte, Welches Grape juice, tea, anything liquid, between feedings to help keep his liquid content up.Even 6 to 8 additional oz. will help.
#7. Does he have a suction machine?? Does he NEED one to get the junk out of his mouth to help him swallow or just feel better??
#8. You and -Especially -your Mom need to carve out some down time whenever possible.. Find a way to designate to friends and other family some of the "non- Dad personal" chores that need tending to: gro shopping, laundry,meds pick-up, yard work,house work, etc. You have a long haul here, so it is vital that you both take care of yourselves. Keep posting, it will help to relieve some pressure and you will always have support from those of us who have been there and care. Amy in the Ozarks