Why does Manohar Parrikar have a tube inserted in his nose?

Mr Manohar Parrikar will go down in history as one of the most dynamic politicians and strong leaders in the Goan politics because no one would have been capable to bring back the BJP into power despite its drastic loss in the last assembly polls. Nevertheless, the self-motivated leader was out of the public domain for quite some time due to his serious pancreatic ailment and the public saw him the first time when he made his appearance for the inspection of a bridge with a fine plastic tube inserted into his nose. 

When Parrikar’s public appearance became infrequent, there were several rumours floating around filtering into the media about his health and his entire existence but as usual, Mr Parrikar gave a shocking surprise by appearing in public and shutting down all the speculations.  

Everyone was surprised to see him looking strong and active: a far cry from the Parrikar who could hardly walk without help, and everyone wanted to know how he reached such a stage. Questions were asked about the tube that’s inserted into his nose. We have done a little bit of research and found out the reason behind his nasal tube. 

According to sources, Mr Parrikar was going through final stage pancreatic cancer which made him very weak and resulted in heavy weight loss. When he was diagnosed with cancer, his initial treatment was started at Mumbai’s Lilavati hospital from where he was shifted to the USA due to the severity of cancer. 

He could not stay longer in the USA as the political turmoil started emerging in Goa and he had to return back to India. After his return, he was again taken back to Delhi for further treatment and soon after he returned to Goa on a stretcher. That was his last public appearance. 

Mr Parrikar, looking weak with a nasal tube, made his first public appearance after a really long gap on the third Mandovi bridge. The entire purpose of this public appearance was to silence the opposition who was making false allegations about his health. But his weak demeanour also stunned people

According to sources, the plastic tube inserted into the nose of Mr Parrikar is known as a Ryles Tube:a Nasogastric intubation is a medical process involving the insertion of a plastic tube (nasogastric tube or NG tube) through the nose, past the throat, and down into the stomach, and the purpose of the same is to deliver the food directly into the stomach. 

The reports further state that when a person is incapable of swallowing food through the mouth, this special tube is inserted through the nose which passes from the throat and is directly connected to the stomach. This is mostly done for patients of Pancreatic cancers. 

It is very difficult to say if the tube will ever be removed as that is the only method by which food can reach the body which in return gives the energy required for it to function all day. It is very important to note that despite being in such a serious condition, Mr Parrikar is still performing his duties.

Source: Amar Ujala