fluid in the lungs

I had fluid drained from my lungs on Friday and I felt a tremendous amount of relief. I had a chronic cough for months, but afterwards I wasn't coughing nearly as much. It was the first time I ever had that done. I was wondering though.... on average.... how quickly does the fluid return. By Sunday, I could feel the sensation again in my chest again and had my chronic cough again. Is this normal? How frequently will this happen..... or will beginning chemo help with all that?

[gah_70]

Hi Kimberly,

I can't say for sure about fluid in the lungs, but I do know that chemo does help with ascites in the abdomen.  I would imagine it would help with fluid in the lungs, too, but it may take a while to "kick in".  If Yvonne is around, I remember reading her posts where she said she had fluid in the lungs, as well, so she can probably give you more info on that.  Best wishes to you, and I hope chemo went well today.  

Gail

[YvonneS]

Depends on what is causing the fluid.  I had mine drained about 7 weeks ago.  It about half full now. Coughing pretty bad, but last week they wouldn't drain it because it was not a lot of fluid.  Doctor said there is too much risk (your lung can collapse).  Ono told me mine is "secondary cancer" caused by the ovarian cancer-it is not lung cancer.  He was hoping the chemo (Topotecan) would take cre of it, but doesn't seem to be helping very much.  It sure can hurt though.  Good luck.  Yvonne

[newlifegal]

I had 2500 cc of fluid drained from my lungs about 4 weeks ago.  It was a tremendous relief and really did boost my energy levels.  My pulmonologist said there was a 50/50 chance that it could return and if that was the case, they would tap it again.  The cells were malignant ovarian cancer cells with no evidence of organ involvement.  I'm on a carboplatin/gemsar chemo treatment plan and I do believe it is helping my ascites.  We tried topotecan before this and got no results.  Yvonne, I hope you have better results.  Christa

[Kimchi]

Had my lung drained before my hysto and startin chemo and have not had it since.  My chemo meds are suppose to take care of that.

[dian07]

You know....I read this site religiously and find myself amazed on a daily basis.  I am down to checkups every 6 months....anything and everything makes me wonder what the hell is going on.  You guys, on the other hand, are dealing with horrible realities every single day.  You women are some of the strongest people walking this planet......you amaze me and I draw strength from your posts.  Women are clearly the strongest beings on this planet.....you guys are proof positive.  I admire you more than I can say.  You are courage, strength and hope personofied.  May God be with each of you......this includes all you women dealing with this monster.
Peace.
dian