54 year old male have questions about HPV cancer

@rs800 I'm not sure why you think you have cancer, but only a series of tests can tell. Get those done, before you start to worry.

With that being said, ask away.

My husband was 52 when he was diagnosed, and has been cancer free for 8 years now.

@cathyincavecreek what cancer did your husband have and what was his treatment?

I don’t recall the specific type, but it was HPV related. He had 35 radiation treatments and three chemo rounds.
It was in his throat, causing issues with speech and swallowing. He had a tracheostomy and stomach tube during treatment.

I had the same with the same treatment. However I am 5 weeks out of treatment and still suffering.
I have lots if pain in the throat....phlemn build up and a swollen tongue.
Did your husband experience this. It is frightening and frustrating all at once. Thanks

I have to agree with Stephen on this. Get a diagnosis. Get a biopsy. Then go from there.
Usually surgery on any tumor or lymph node area is performed. From that an analysis can be made as to the type of cancer if indeed it is cancer. While you heal from the surgery there is time to determine the next steps. Squamous Cell can be typed as to HPV positive related or not. In some cases drugs alone can be used to eradicate any remaining bad cells or perhaps radiation or a combination of both may be required. All cases are unique. Data shows the HPV 16+ has the fewest reoccurrences, if that sets your mind at ease. Many of us here have survived this. Many of us in your age range +/- ten years. 23 years out for me. Courage.

My husband is 17 months post radiation and still suffering from radiation damage to his throat. He was just diagnosed with pleural effusion and pneumonia. Has anyone dealt with pleural effusion? His right lung is half liquid at the bottom. His radiation was to the right side of his throat.

He is on antibiotics and may have a needle inserted to see what the effusion consists of…

I am 18 months out of HPV treatment. I had 35 rounds of radiation over 7 weeks and chemo weekly. If you are 5 weeks out, radiation is still doing its thing, I was in pain for a good 6-7 months. It gradually gets better and you will recover. I do remember that 1st 8-10 weeks and it seemed like that is when pain peaks. Hydrate best you can. High calorie Boost was my main food. Gradually i got into Instant Cup a Soup and then i would mix it with pureed navy beans. YOU WILL GET BETTER. Today i am in my second year of quarterly checkups and all is good. I have a friend who is 20 plus years out. One day at a time, prayer and family support are a treasure.

5 weeks out is pretty rough. I remember having the same thoughts. You will get better. I am 18 months out and have good reports from my checkups. I have a friend who is 20plus years out. Hang in there you will get better.

He experienced the same things. It was scary, but he listened to his treatment team and did what he needed to do. It eventually got better. He does still have trouble swallowing, but he can eat regular food.