HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Recommend Supplements For Weight Gain And Nutrient Absorption For A Bile Duct Cancer Patient.

My aunt is suffering from anemia believed to be caused by bleeding ulcers. Being treated - over a month ago, but blood cell counts still low. She has a transfusion and is close to needing another one. In addition she is losing eight at a rapid pace. Her body is not absorbing nutrients. She had bile duct cancer and had Whipple surgery about 3 years ago. Cancer markers all clear. Most concerning is weight loss and controlling the anemia. Any thoughts/recommendations on supplements that could help her body absorb/retain nutrients and iron?
Mon, 8 Dec 2014
Report Abuse
Pulmonologist,  's  Response
Thanks for your question on HCM.
The problem in her case is malabsorption. It is very common complication after whipple's operation. In whipple's operation many of the abdominal organs are resected,so the total surface area of gut which is important In absorption also decreased. So orally given nutritional supplements are not absorbed properly. So deficiency occured.
Best treatment in this patient is parenteral nutrition. In this intravenous infusion containing carbohydrates, lipids, aminoacid, vitamins and trace elements is given. So discuss these things with your doctor and start parenteral nutrition.
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Recent questions on Pancreaticoduodenectomy


Loading Online Doctors....
Recommend Supplements For Weight Gain And Nutrient Absorption For A Bile Duct Cancer Patient.

Thanks for your question on HCM. The problem in her case is malabsorption. It is very common complication after whipple s operation. In whipple s operation many of the abdominal organs are resected,so the total surface area of gut which is important In absorption also decreased. So orally given nutritional supplements are not absorbed properly. So deficiency occured. Best treatment in this patient is parenteral nutrition. In this intravenous infusion containing carbohydrates, lipids, aminoacid, vitamins and trace elements is given. So discuss these things with your doctor and start parenteral nutrition.