← Return to Recently diagnosed with cancer on left tonsil with swollen lymph nodes

Discussion
Comment receiving replies
@laconiaborn54

I also had cancer in left tonsil and had both tonsils removed plus 43 lymph nodes taken out. Only one lymph node had cancer and it stayed intact of node. After much research and talking to others I opp out of radiation. Is it the right move well time will tell but I do feel ok. My biggest problem is constant ear aches and pressure in ears. Good luck in your journey.

Jump to this post


Replies to "I also had cancer in left tonsil and had both tonsils removed plus 43 lymph nodes..."

Hello @laconiaborn54 and welcome to Mayo Connect. I see that you had surgery. How long ago was your diagnosis and surgery? How are you feeling now? Has your doctor given you any reason or help for the fullness and pain in your ears or is that typical?

On Connect, there is another discussion on cancer of the Tonsils that you might find interesting. Here is the link,
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/tonsil-cancer-of-husband/

After surgery, was there any other treatment such as chemotherapy?

Yep...I relate very well with all your experiences. I had a small tumor on the base of my tongue. Mayo, Dr. Price, did the surgery and also took my right tonsil. Pulled 22 lymph nodes with only one being positive. Was given the option of doing nothing further, but for a bit more insurance, I opted for 2 weeks of low intensity radiation with one low dose chemo per week. I felt absolutely fine through nearly the entire treatment. Then, my 2nd to the last day of radiation, I started to experience the effects. Went back home to start my recovery and I have realized that there are absolutely no words in the English language that adequately describe what I was about to go through for a good 2.5 months. In fact, there were 3 or 4 days that I absolutely couldn't imagine anyone being so sick and surviving! I am now about 4.5 months from my last treatment, and am feeling as close to "normal" as I've felt. I've gained some weight back and am gaining strength and endurance. And, YES...seek out and get what you need to relieve your pain. Mayo has been stellar for me in this regard. Just went through my 3-month check-up and I am completely cancer free!
If I've learned anything throughout this ordeal it's been patience....and the importance of self advocacy.
Merry Christmas, all!