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Tonsil cancer

Posted by joanie1953 @joanie1953, Mar 18 7:32pm

I recently was diagnosed with hpv 16 positive tonsil cancer-stage 1-my tonsil mass was removed surgically. I don’t need radiation or chemo-it has been 6 weeks and my swallowing is sometimes difficult-I try to swallow water and some comes out my nose- is this normal?

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pml | @pml | Mar 18 8:31pm

Hi Joanie,
It sounds like your surgery was successful! That's great that you don't have to have any other treatment. However, just to be safe I would suggest that you see your doctor as soon as possible. Sometimes side effects from surgeries etc. are difficult to put up with but you need to be certain exactly what is going on.

Prayer also helps. Just ask for God's guidance. I'll say a prayer for you also.
I wish you the best.
PML

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lummy | @lummy | Mar 30 8:39am

Hello,
8 yrs ago I had surgery, radiation, & chemo for HPV tonsil cancer. The surgery took the motor nerve that controlled the left side of my tongue and part of my pallet.
You are fortunate you caught yours early.
Yes, it is normal after surgery to have water occasionally come out of your nose when swallowing, considering the changes from the surgery.
Was it suggested that you do swallow exercise to help your swallowing after your surgery? I believe these exercises could be beneficial for you.
Heal well,
Phil

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