About the side effects - having radiology with chemo for throat cancer

Hi there, I've been diagnosed with throat cancer and am having radiology with chemotherapy. I want to know how long the side effects will last after my treatment stops. I can't taste any thing at all and with my mouth having a metallic taste it's hard to true to eat. I've got a rig inserted. But not using it yet. 

  • Hello and thanks for your post,

    I am sorry to hear about the side effects that you have been having.

    Everyone is very different as to how they recover from this treatment. Usually side effects continue for a few weeks after treatment has stopped and then hopefully you will recover some of your taste buds though with some people the taste buds may not fully recover.

    We do have some information on our website about side effects after treatment.

    It can help to carry a bottle around with you as a lot of people complain about a very dry mouth.

    It is important that you are eating high calorie foods to help with healing after the treatment that you have had. Small frequent meals or high energy drinks may help. Trying to experiment with different foods with slightly stronger flavours may also help.

    We have some tips on our website that you might find helpful to look at on taste changes.

    I do hope that as time goes on things will improve for you. Let your team know if you look like you are losing weight.

    You have posted in ask the nurses but if you post on another thread or start your own you may find that you get other posts from people who have had a similar experience.

    Do give the nurses a ring on the helpline if you would like to talk things through. The number to ring is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm.

    All the best,

    Catherine