Loss of appetite and the chore of eating

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My experience is similar to what Karen described. I believe it's called bolus feeding, no bag, and takes less than a half hour start to finish. And I can do other things while it flows... Tv, computer, conversation, space out. I've attached a picture from when I used to be able to do it all myself. Well, with feline assistance. It's a lot less work than shopping for, making, and drinking a smoothie. BTW the formula Karen and I use is 325 ml containing 500 calories.
 

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Nona, that picture is too cute!
I just got a feeding and was on the forum typing out my previous response during the feeding. Dog was by my feet.
 
That reminds me... The downside to bolus feeding is our startle reflex. I was sitting and feeding one day awhile back and my dog barked at something. I startled and ended up wearing my food.
 

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But seriously, @Micaela , it is a lifesaver. It will make eating easier for you and your caregivers, especially as you progress. The food and supplies are entirely portable so you can feed anywhere. I've been fed at restaurants, movie theaters, parties, beaches.,. We cut holes in my dresses so I don't have to lift clothing to eat. The surgery is best done early, and the pain for me just felt like I had done way too many situps. And we'll be here to get you through it.
 
Feeding Chris took around 10 - 15 minutes.
Some people find if their digestion is slowing a bit that being hooked up to a feeding pump overnight works really well. Then they just graze on what they want to eat through the day, maybe some water as needed and feel quite free from concern about calories and fluids.
 
Allow me to pile on. I got my tube placed 3 years ago, and if you can live through a bad trip to the dentist, you will make out fine. I got my tube early as my breathing was sub 50% and pills were difficult to swallow. I was wide awake, mildly sedated, and it took all of 20 minutes. Mine was done by a radiologist instead of a surgeon. It hurt for about 2 weeks, nothing tylenol can't handle. Since then it really hasn't been an issue except for a couple of infections around the stoma (the hole in your stomach) which clear up with a topical antibiotic cream. All in all it will make getting nutrition and hydration without the anxiety that choking causes.
Vincent
 
My feedings take 15 minutes each as well. For people who like a long, slow drip they usually do it overnight. Feeding tube is so easy and helpful to me. I got mine early and strongly recommend doing it that way.
 
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