Nasal and sinus cavity cancer

Hello, my husband has  just  had a mass the size of a satsuma removed from  his nasal cavity.  The biopsy has come back as cancerous.  He has just had scans to see if the cancer has spread.  We don't know yet what grade it is but the ENT surgeon is referring my husband to a head and neck oncologist and said treatment would be radiotherapy and chemo.  This frightens me.  I lost my first husband to cancer 25 years ago.  I am very worried about the effect of radiotherapy for nasal cancer and its side effects.  I don't know how we will cope.  We have no family to support us.  We are in our early 70s and my husband is my carer as I am partially visually impaired.  I worry how my husband will cope mentally with the treatment

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about your husband's situation and appreciate this is a very difficult time for you both especially given your past experience of losing your first husband to cancer.

    After a cancer diagnosis patients are discussed within a MDT ( Multi Disciplinary Team) where all the specialists come together to decide the best course of action for each individual patient. The decisions are based upon the type and stage ( size and extent) of cancer and how fit and well they are.

    You may find the information on our website on nasal cancer helpful to read.

    You husband's specialist team or nurse specialist could let you know what support is available at the hospital and locally in your area. You also might find that the hospital has a Macmillan Drop in or a well-being centre where you can get support. 

    Maggie's centres provides a variety of support for people affected by cancer. The cancer care map also lists local support services. 

    On our website, we have information about supporting someone with cancer both emotionally and practically  The charity Macmillan Cancer Support have some further information on their website. It's important that you also look after yourself. Macmillan also have information on looking after yourself and how to access support.

    I hope this has been of some help. Give us a ring if you would like to talk anything over. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene