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Dear Cathy,
Your post reminded me of my situation from October 2002 until March 2003. The fluid kept accumulating on my left side and I was quite short of breath. The young pulmonary physician spoke to me about the talc process and/or installing a drain. I went to an Onc at Johns Hopkins for a second opinion and she told me my object should be to stop the disease because this type of surgery is not pleasant.
After lots of serious infections and frequent hospiltalizations, my guardian angel (an old and wise pulmonary professor) entered my hospital room when all the drs. were giving up on me and concluded I was suffering from "Radiation Pneumonitis" or some call it Radiation Recall. He immediately ordered large doses of steroids through the IV. I was able to leave the hospital five days later without oxygen.
It is now 16 months later and I am happy to report the fluid in my left lung is not a problem. Yes, the malignant pleural effusion is there (because there is no Cure for this disease) but it is minimal. I do know that Gemzar can excerbate the fluid. I am currently on Herceptin weekly, Navelbine (2 weeks on and one week off); Prednisone 10 mg one day and 5 mg the next. and Femara. The combination of drugs are keeping me alive and well. This week I saw both the Onc. and the Pulmonary phys. and both said they would not change anything because they do not want to rock the boat!
I find the fluid business to be very scary so I really relate to your problem. I do not know if my experience will help but steroids have contributed to my functioning on a normal basis.
Hugs,
Maggie
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