Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Hospice Care. Had Stomach Cancer. Did It Spread To Liver? Why Did He Vomit Black Liquid?
Hi, my uncle is currently in hospice care. He was diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago. Last week he was told the cancer had spread to his liver . He is now completly incontinent. He is unable to eat and drinks very little, however is vomiting a lot of black liquid regularly. Can you tell me, is this the final stage of the cancer? When will the doctors start the morphine to put him out of his misery? Thanks.
Fri, 28 Jun 2013
Hi there, Vomiting black liquid seems most likely as altered blood though bile may be brownish sometimes as well. It looks like he is in final stage of cancer. Morphine is a pain killer and if he is not in pain he is unlikely to be started on it. The perception that morphine is given to put someone out of misery, is rather for pain really. Many patients morphine is given short time and is stopped when pain is relieved. Do speak to your hospice nurse and get a clear picture and usually they explain the situation on day to day basis. Regards
I find this answer helpful
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]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Abdominal pain
Loading Online Doctors....