Hi @fwpoole
The one thing that was hard for me to learn is that everyone is different when it comes to the effects of radiation and/or chemo therapy.
That being said, the burning in the back of my throat was the main reason I was put on opioids. I originally described it as burning pain. It then escalated to what I referred to as the feeling of swallowing razor blades when I would drink my protein shakes (I was on liquids by then). This was the main reason I was put on opioids. My experience ended up being what I would call shifting pain. The burning then moved over to the left side of my throat for about 8 weeks. It also felt like I had another tumour growing on my left side. (my tumour was on the right side). Then about 6 weeks ago the pain shifted to the right side of my throat in which it still remains. I no longer need to freeze with lidocaine (pink lady) to drink my shakes or eat some soft foods. I now manage pain with magic mouthwash (Akabutus) and sometimes a couple of Tylenol.
So to answer your question, (based upon my experience only) is that this burning pain is normal. I can’t say how bad it will get for you but don’t be too surprised if it gets worse. However, keep in mind that it does get better. It just doesn’t happen overnight. As previously mentioned, do whatever you need to do to look after yourself and reduce the pain.