Throat Cancer

sister39
sister39 Member Posts: 2
edited March 2014 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
My 66 year old brother is currently undergoing radiation treatments. He had small tumors on his vocal cords and in the back of his mouth which were removed surgically in September. His throat is very painful and he can't eat or drink anything. He had a tube inserted in his stomach last week. He was dehydrated and had lost 34 lbs. He has now gained 3 pounds. Next week will be the last week of 35 radiation treatments. He is wondering how long it will be before he can expect to be rid of the severe throat pain. He can't even swallow what little saliva he has. Any responses from people that have had the same experience will be greatly appreciated.

Comments

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

    You may want to contact the American Cancer Society's National Cancer Information Center. Cancer Information Specialists are available 24 hours a day to 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
  • maur
    maur Member Posts: 23 Member
    #3
    My friend had throat cancer stage4 tonsil. He had 35 radiation treatments also. It took a good month for the pain to lessen and a few months before he could eat soft foods. Measure his improvement by weeks not days.It does take a while. The side effects too can be permanent like dry mouth. It will take time but your brother will get through this. If I can be of anymore help, just ask. God bless!
  • bama911gal
    bama911gal Member Posts: 1
    #4
    Hey,

    I too am a throat cancer survivor, have your brother ask his doctor about the medication for saliva production. There are several and I had to try two different kinds before I felt any relief. Mind you it wasn't alot but it did help. I somehow was very fortunate and didn't have the pain as intense as most. I endured 35 radiation treatments, 3 1/2 chemos, 2 blood transfusions and a weight loss of 44 pounds in the first 4 weeks. Each person is different in how long the recovery takes after the treatments end but tell your brother and others to keep the prayer lines open and try his best not to fall into a "funk". Mental attitude is a big part or so I feel it is.
    I will keep your brother and family in my prayers.

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