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Head & Neck Cancer post-treatment issues...

LynnieB
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My husband has just completed a 6 week course of Chemoradiotherapy for Stage 4 Head & Neck Cancer.

We knew the first weeks after would be hard, but he had had Stage 3 Mucositis since 24 Oct (7 weeks so far) and has had to have everything via a stomach Peg since then, including water & meds. Last weekend the mucus began to reduce slightly and he was delighted as it's so painful, but it's now been replaced by a number of very painful ulcers along his inside jawline.

And in the last 3 days he's also been getting a very, very painful feeling across his inner cheeks and lower jaw as if something is pulling at them.

Is this normal please as we're so worried. 

  • Hello LynnieB

    I'm sorry to hear about all the problems your husband has been having since his chemoradiation. I know from the many posts I've read here over the years how harsh this treatment can be and it's understandable that you're both feeling worried about the new pain that he's recently developed. 

    Our team of nurses are now out of the office until Monday morning and will respond as soon as they are able to. 

    In the meantime, if you are concerned about your husband's pain management or any other aspect of his health do call NHS 111 over the weekend. They will be able to offer advice and support and if necessary can arrange for him to see a health professional. 

    Do give his specialist cancer nurse a call on Monday as well to let them know about the problems he's been having. Hopefully they will be able to help improve things. 

    I hope that things settle soon. 

    Keep in touch and let us know how you both get on. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hello there and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear about the side effects your husband has had and is still experiencing since finishing a course of chemoradiation treatment.

    These types of treatment can be very challenging for both the patient and loved one's so the past few weeks can't have been easy for either of you.

    Everyone is different in the side effects they will get or how severe they are. This is why it is important to let the specialist team involved know about any ongoing or new or worsening symptoms so they can properly assess your husband. The team may be able to recommend medications to help ease some of this for your husband.

    I do hope your husband starts to feel much better soon. Please get back if you need to or if you prefer give one of the nurses a call on 0808 800 4040 weekdays 9-5.

    Best wishes

    Naomi

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