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I just started radiation, what kind of side effects should I expect?
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: May 30 8:24am | Replies (52)Comment receiving replies
@sandy8043
Your routine is similar to the one I used for my journey.
Can’t stress enough how important it is to do exercises for your neck and swallowing muscles. It has helped me recover faster than if I hadn’t (I finished radiation treatment mid December for hpv tongue and lymph node cancer).
Currently going to acupuncture (1x/week),practicing deep breathing techniques and lymphatic massage.
Dry mouth is still an issue (especially at night) but has improved since ending radiation treatment.
Overall almost five months later I am able to see much improvement on all aspects of my life and expect that I will continue to get better as time continues to pass.
The road to recovery isn’t easy and recovery is a “two steps forward and one step backward” process…but stay strong,stay positive and do the little things everyday that set you up for long term success! You can do this!!👍
Replies to "@sandy8043 Your routine is similar to the one I used for my journey. Can’t stress enough..."
@albion223 two things that help with my dry mouth at night....one I wear a compression wrap on my head. And two...I used Xylimelts mints. They stick on you gum and keep your mouth moist all night. Some folks wear them all day, too. They worked great for me. You can get them on Amazon or at Walmart.
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Thank you for the encouragement, I try to work a few hrs a day, can't get in much more than that. I am constantly moving my neck and using my left arm,which is a chore upon itself. The dry mouth is bothersome but manageable. It's my lack of wanting to eat that is the most troublesome.