1. < Head & Neck Cancer
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I am now post 8 months from my radiation treatment for throat cancer.

Posted by AL GiL @jg99t9, Jun 20 10:41pm

I am wondering if some of these symptoms are just part of the healing process. I assume they are but I just want to know if anyone else has had some of these.
Besides still having irritation on my tongue, gums, and throat, and the usual dry mouth along with never ending mucous in my sinuses, is it normal to have some of these other symptoms like sore and numb teeth that feel like they still have food stuck between them even after I flossed? And when eating anything sweet like ice cream, you can initially taste it, but after a few more bites, it loses its flavor? And finally, being sensitive to the spiciness of certain foods that were not a problem before including ground pepper on eggs?

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harleytiger | @harleytiger | Dec 7 10:57pm
In reply to @tony591 "I am 2 years post radiation and had most of the problems you listed at first..." + (show)
Profile picture for tony591 @tony591

I am 2 years post radiation and had most of the problems you listed at first and saw a lot of improvement by end of first year. Mouth sore went away but dry mouth continued. Toothaches went away. Dry mouth still present but improving slowly. I have to drink more water when I eat and avoid overly chewy things for best swallowing. I have my teeth cleaned more often which helps.
Also minimal interest in sweets. My sense of taste is varied day to day. Probably about 60%. It will get better in time and like another writer said
all of these side effects are the price of survival and still being able to enjoy what we can. Wishing you the best-things will improve.

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@tony591 Thanks Tony, I appreciate you helping us newbies out with your experience.

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AL GiL | @jg99t9 | 20 hours ago
In reply to @jimsmith888 "I’m 9 months post proton radiation and chemo. I have issues with brain fog and fatigue...." + (show)
Profile picture for jimsmith888 @jimsmith888

I’m 9 months post proton radiation and chemo. I have issues with brain fog and fatigue. My tinnitus is worse than I thought it would be and there’s no real treatment. I also have issues with a lack of mucus, irregular bowls, and keeping my weight up. Most my sense of taste has come back but spice and alcohol burns my mouth. Getting treatment, appointments, and follow up care for side effects has been a real struggle. But I’ve had 2 negative PET scans and I’m hopeful to get back closer to normal. Tip: listen to your doctor and research everything. Chemo changes you….and saves you. Be strong!!!

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@jimsmith888

Thank you.

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