H&N radiation

Like you, most of us had no previous experience with radiation treatment and the side effects. Is Proton better than Photon? Usually yes. But there are many cases where a broader range of area is in need of being zapped. There is also the cost consideration as well as the availability of a Proton unit.
So it is what it is. Now you need to rebuild. The issues you have for the most part will gradually subside. It could be months, likely years out when someday you realize you no longer have this or that problem.
My nightmare was the common sneeze. The pain from a sneeze would drop me almost to my knees. Tears were certain to flow. Eight years of this and then it stopped.
Nerve pain in my arms, neck, and shoulder lasted perhaps five years. Eventually time passes and so does most of the physical damage. We heal albeit far slower than any normal bodily injury. I like to say that radiation is like being cooked on the inside, a bad burn you cannot see. And a burn recovery is often the most difficult to overcome.
I wish you good healing and a good long life cancer free. I hope you get back to feeling somewhat normal soon.

20 years later, and I still deal with some of the problems created by neck cancer treatment. There is some pain, stiffness and discomfort, but most of it I've learned to live with. The one that has been most bothersome has been baroreflex failure. Of course, they told me that I may see consequences of radiation treatment 20 years out such as new cancers. Time will tell. All in all, I accepted the treatment that was available and I'm still standing. Some aren't fortunate enough to be able to say that. Good luck!

I did speak with my radiation oncologist. She is highly experienced. She explained why my cancer treatment needed photon (they do have a Proton system). It was thyroid/trachea. I had 35 treatments.

@kmlnj Very interesting comment, km. That your highly experienced radiation oncologist NEEDED PHOTON, not Proton. I was looking for, but could not find, information on when Photon is perferred over Proton. I suspect that my oncologist also takes that view, although I am not sure of that--or--if she lacks the knowledge of the two systems as well as it should be. Also i suspect that since Photon is more readily available, a professional may lean toward that treatment. Maybe someone else knows (read) why Photon is preferred over Proton in some cases. I am assuming the side affects of Photon is greater than Proton.

Yes. Thyroid cancel wrapped around my trachea and very close to my voice box. Thyroidectomy couldn't remove everything, messy and complex. They did take 2 lymph nodes. Highly experienced Surgeon and radiation oncologist and chemotherapy oncologist work closely on a team. I had 35 photon radiation and 6 chemotherapy boosters. Memorial Sloan Kettering.
Take care.

@kmlnj thank you. only 2 lymph nodes. I wonder what determines the number to make certain the cancer is contained.