Dad has throat cancer--proposed treatment extreme?

4Thom
4Thom Member Posts: 1
edited March 2014 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
My 87-year-old father has been diagnosed with throat cancer. He had an initial operation and was told "we got most of it." Recently hospitalized with double pneumonia and a rapid heart rate, he has gone home but the doctors want to begin a 6-week radiation regimen for the throat cancer in which a protective mask is made and he receives a daily shot of radiation. A tube will be inserted in his stomach for feeding during this time. This seems to me to be an extreme treatment for a man his age. I have been told by a friend whose mother had a similar procedure that this can destroy salivary glands and the patient will never feel like eating again or may not be able to eat again. I would appreciate any thoughts or suggestions--I am trying to obtain more information to convince him to get, at the very least, a second opinion on treatment. Thank you so much. This is a wonderful site.

Comments

  • AuthorUnknown
    AuthorUnknown Member Posts: 1,537 Member
    #2
    Hello,

    I encourage you to contact the American Cancer Society's National Cancer Information Center. Cancer Information Specialists are available 24 hours a day and can assist you with your questions. They can be reached at 1-800-227-2345 or by clicking on the "Contact ACS" link at the top of this page.

    Take care and be well,

    Dana

    CSN Dana

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