How long does a cancer patient have to live when the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes?

Asked by stormy  |  Jul 29, 2011

My father was diagnosed with thyroid cancer a year ago. And now he has a enlarged lymph node in his groin area and some that are enlarged in the chest. Ct report does not sound good to me. Just wondering if it has spread to the lymph nodes then how long does he have and what should we expect (symptoms) for the months to come?

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Carol Bradley Bursack, Aug 8, 2011

Over the span of two decades author, columnist and speaker Carol Bradley Bursack cared for a neighbor and six elderly family members. Because of this experience, Bradley Bursack created a portable support group, the book "Minding Our Elders: Caregivers Share Their Personal Stories."

 

I'm sorry about your dad. Each person is different. Your father's doctor will have to answer these questions, though even medical people are often hesitate to put a timeline on someone's life. However, you may want to talk to the doctor to see if hospice care is something to consider in the near future. The can help keep him comfortable. People qualify for hospice care who have been diagnosed as having six months or less to live. Hospice personnel are generally very good about answering questions about the patient's health.
Take care of yourself, too.
Carol

 
 

oneandonly

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Aug 22, 2011

my 98 yr old mom has metastic breast cancer that has spread to her chest wall, ribs and lymph nodes along with many tumors in her breast. This is her second bout with breast cancer. First time was 34 yrs ago. This time it started 11 yrs ago. PET scan does not show any tumors in her brain but she has been complaining of head pain for last 2 mos. She has become very agitated lately and her skin is very itichy. The doctor has said she has 6-12 mos but that is if the cancer continues slowly if not it will be less. Does all of these latest developments mean anyhting and does anyone know of any solutions for the itching??? I hate to call the doctor every week with all of these questions. Any suggestions??
oneandonly

 
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