One week down

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LiseA
LiseA Member Posts: 266
in Head and Neck Cancer #1

I feel good just having finished a week without screaming when the mask is bolted down. No symptoms yet. I had fatigue from surgery which is improving, but still there, so not radiation related.

Stilk eating well, and able to do some exercise. Enjoying life. Met some really nice people in the radiation waiting area. 

Tomorrow is the beginning of my second week. Onward and upwards, right? 

 

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  • Josephwc
    Josephwc Member Posts: 69
    #2
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    Keep us posted

    Eat and drink as much as you can. Keep your diet good it will help in the last few weeks. Drink plenty of water.  Rest rest rest even when you feel like you can conquer the world relax for these coming weeks and don't try to set any records. I just finished my radiation and recovery for me is ongoing. I can taste a few things like: eggs, green tea, oatmeal, black tea, but I'm getting bored with the same old flavors. Good luck and keep us posted you will do great!

  • stevenpepe
    stevenpepe Member Posts: 234
    #3
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    Like Joe says, keep eating

    Like Joe says, keep eating and drinking. Swallowing is very important, especially when food tastes like crap.

    Last night, I made a wonderful steak with mashed potatoes, broccoli, and avocado. It looked and smelled so good.

    Then, I put the first fork in my mouth and blah. Nothing but disappointment. That is what's ahead like everyone advises. You get to the point where you're eating for calories and that's what you want. Don't let that mess with your head. If your sores are controlled, like mine are right now, just eat like you always have and you'll be fine.

    I'm about to sit down to some pancakes smothered in butter and syrup. One of a couple of foods that taste ok for me. Stay positive and focused. I'm one day shy of the halfway point.

    By the way, I actually found week 2 to be more eventful than weeks 3 or 4. I had a heavy metallic taste that has dissipated somewhat, and the sores, being new, were most painful. I hate to say it gets easier, but I think my tolerance for it has improved. I wish the same for you.

  • SusanUES
    SusanUES Member Posts: 125
    #4
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    You're well on your way, Lisa!

    In some ways, the scariest bits are behind you now...discovery, biopsy, decision...now you are on the road to cure and healing!

    Eating well is important.  If and when comes the time you can't do "regular" foods any longer, there are supplements, liquids and other options to keep you going until you can revert.  As Steven said, taste buds get nuked...and that is a bummer...but don't let it upset you too much.  The second thing my MSK speech/swallowing therapist said to me was "You'll never eat steak again."  Okay, that sucks but burgers still taste semi-decent and it's not the worst thing in the world.

    Hang in there, girlie!

  • Raddude
    Raddude Member Posts: 84
    #5
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    Stay positive

    Sounds like you are doing very well and have a great attitude. Hang in there it's only for a season. When I went through it seemed like forever. On the other side now for 3 months it seems so long ago.

  • stevenpepe
    stevenpepe Member Posts: 234
    #6
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    SusanUES said:

    You're well on your way, Lisa!

    In some ways, the scariest bits are behind you now...discovery, biopsy, decision...now you are on the road to cure and healing!

    Eating well is important.  If and when comes the time you can't do "regular" foods any longer, there are supplements, liquids and other options to keep you going until you can revert.  As Steven said, taste buds get nuked...and that is a bummer...but don't let it upset you too much.  The second thing my MSK speech/swallowing therapist said to me was "You'll never eat steak again."  Okay, that sucks but burgers still taste semi-decent and it's not the worst thing in the world.

    Hang in there, girlie!

    So you never regained flavor

    So you never regained flavor for steak? I can't believe how bad it tastes. What else did you lose flavor for?

  • SusanUES
    SusanUES Member Posts: 125
    #7
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    Steak...

    Too tough to chew and swallow is the problem.  Likewise roast beef, corned beef, etc.  If I tear off tiny pieces and "thread" them, I can eat little bits...but who wants to tackle a Peter Luger steak that way, right?  Drumbstick chicken or wings are okay...anything white meat is a dry disaster.  Likewise turkey (never cared much for that anyway).  When my MSK therapist made the steak comment, she also said "I think given your tongue margins and removal, you'll probably recoup 90% of your speech. She was right on that point so I think her steak comment was also correct.  It's all about the "new normal," eh?

  • wmc
    wmc Member Posts: 1,804
    edited June 2016 #8
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    Lisa.....Just one day at a time, you will get through this......

    Just like the "Little engine that could" You just keep chugging and you will see the light at the end of the tunnel. If you look real close, it does get brighter every day, and the tumor fades the same. It feels like such a slow journey, and so many bumps and potholes, but you will get through this like so many before you. You have a real bad day just come here and vent. We're open 24/7 and will always have an ear when needed.

    Bill

  • LiseA
    LiseA Member Posts: 266
    #9
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    So far my appetite is good,

    So far my appetite is good, so I'm eating as much as I can be I lose these taste buds.

    Today was day 8 on the tanning bed.  There is just a glow on the neck and jaw, no pain, but i did notice that my gums on the side being treated, looks blood red. Not bleeding though. Is this normal?  Is the Biotene for dry mouth, but soda rinse just to keep mouth alkaline?  What is the L glutamine for?   

    I will never be excited to have that mask on! 

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