Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Larynx
My brother-in-law just diagnosed with this cancer. It was caught early, no spread. Radiation recommended. We would like to hear from anyone who has experience with this. How much radiation? What are the side effects of radiation in this area? Could he lose his voice? He is a musician who sings. Thank you for any responses.
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Head & Neck Cancer Support Group.
If you tap on the search (magnifying glass) and type in “Larynx” you will find around 38 separate discussions over the past ten years on this very topic along with hundreds of responses. That is part of the beauty of Connect.
I see many great responses in this discussion as well.
Suggest you folks consider a feeding tube as radiotherapy progresses. Nutrition is vital whilst radiation likely will make eating difficult for a couple of months.
“Courage” as Churchill often said.
Thank you very much !
My thoughts are with you at this moment, it is a hard fight. But it is one you can win, a positive outlook is a great help in any healing.
I have been told in a very late phone call this evening (unusual for specialists to call) that the tissue in my Larynx has become Necrotic and no longer truly viable. The answer from a panel of specialists a little earlier in the week look at all the aspects of my prognosis and agreed that removal or maybe at best a partial removal of the Larynx.
Should you come to this point look at all the positives and your longer term survival. You need to keep a watch on your weight and try and keep your strength up. More power to you in this fight, sending my best.
Thank you for sharing your story.
I must apologize as I see this is not your first rodeo with the big "C". You know the routine and you know there is help here. I am frustrated as I am sure you are that you have to deal with cancer a second time. Sending hugs is the best I can do. We should change your handle to pbnew-part2.
Thank you. I started this discussion for my brother-in-law. His screen name is cberry211
Hello I am so sorry about your journey. Its not fair but we can't think this way. Stay strong.
I would eradicate your resisting tumor if they find it. They can repair the voice box. You can do PT down the road to get your voice smooth again. I would also ask about Robotic surgery if they work around it. My guess this has been discussed though.
We will pray for you and hope for a positive outcome.
I am 6 weeks post treatment : chemo and radiation. I have since stopped losing weight. I am maintaining weight, not gaining yet. Eating is still an issue due to blisters forming in mouth every time I eat food. They go away about an hour after eating. Taste is starting to come back. Still use magic mouthwash as needed with blister flare-up.
Has any one experienced these blisters that come and go?
Welcome @sharkman, you might find some helpful tips with blister flare-ups in this related discussion:
- Mouth Sores from chemo: When do they go away? https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mouth-sores/
And this older discussion:
- Mouth sores, no taste and no saliva and other side effects https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/i-was-diagnosed-with-squamous-cell-carcinoma-of-base-of-tongue-level/
Are certain types of food better than others?
I have not, but I keep having reoccurring mucus, sore throat and earache. I’m 9 weeks out of radiation and chemo. You can try Healios. It’s expensive but helps with soreness.