Connect
← Return to Relief from Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome
Discussion
Relief from Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: 4 hours ago | Replies (88)Comment receiving replies
@omaest thanks for your positive input on the feeding tube!!
As told to my oncologist - I don't see the point of being alive when I am not able to taste or enjoy my food. And because of the swallowing and speech issues - I am not able to get together with friends for a meal or whatever - thus my lifestyle is very much affected. Also, because of speech issues - I tend to have to struggle when I need to go out to purchase anything - and would need help from the customer rep!!
All these adds up to the why I would refuse the feeding tube - but, meanwhile I will try to maintain my weight and take small bites when eating so as not to choke.
Again .. do appreciate your positive view on feeding tube, and take care!!
Replies to "@omaest thanks for your positive input on the feeding tube!! As told to my oncologist -..."
@josk
I don't have nor ever had a feeding tube, but one of the side effects of the radiation for me is the total inability to taste. It's been five and a half years since I have tasted anything. I still eat, enjoy the social aspects of eating at home with my wife or out with friends. I, too, thought it would make life miserable, but I'm still healthy, happy and active.
Connect
@josk my experience was similar to omarest. I,got the tube at the onset of chemo and radiation. I had only one mouth sore and no nausea. I found then and even now some foods cause my mouth to swell and affect my speech and swallowing. Also when dining out Id order soup or a malt, or coffee. I still went out and my friends were so wonderful. I'm a dude tube believer.