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Annual Testing - Long Term Survivors
Head & Neck Cancer | Last Active: Jul 29 10:01am | Replies (17)Comment receiving replies
@ernierogersquamus123 Morning , due to all the side effects of radiation for head and neck cancer I have had what is called a barium swallowing test . This test they say is necessary because I am on a feeding tube for almost one year now . I can’t eat because of the continuous side effects,
I’m told a person normally swallows 2000 times per day .
In my condition I doubt if I swallow 300 times a day . (My guess .)
I try to drink water but I don’t even have an appetite for that .
God bless you all and stay safe .
Replies to "@ernierogersquamus123 Morning , due to all the side effects of radiation for head and neck cancer..."
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@ernierogersquamus123 Many patients tell me that the longer they are on a feeding tube, the harder it is to regain the ability to swallow.
Swallowing requires the use and coordination of around fifty small muscles. Exercising of those muscles is probably the only way to keep them working correctly.
I myself have a bit of permanent damage to the epiglottis and have scar folds or pockets in the upper throat as well. Eating is always a slow process for me. No talking or breathing through my mouth while eating. Lots of concentration which I eventually got used to. Of course it is more difficult in social situations and I end up choking or coughing.
As for the appetite issue, your body says you are not hungry. That is one I have no experience.
The barium swallow test, I have. And yuck. Why can’t they make that paste taste a little better. They should call that test a gag reflex test.
Advice, keep seeking help from other doctors or clinics until you find a solution. You are your own best advocate. If we don’t take charge of our health, who will?