Diet advice for vocal cord cancer. My appetite is not good and I've lost quite a lot of weight. Should I ask my consultant to refer me to a dietician?

I had 6 weeks of Radiotherapy in June 2024. I still have very little saliva and my taste doesn't seem to be improving.

I had vocal cord cancer  and all my scans have been clear since. I can't eat meat apart from mince and my appetite is not good. I have lost quite a lot of weight.

I have read so many posts about weight loss and muscle being destroyed.

My problem is that in the past I was anorexic and part of me actually likes the loss of weight as well.

Do you think that I should ask the consultant to refer me to a dietician...I have a telephone appointment on 13th February.

Many thanks

  • Hello, and thank you for posting,

    I’m sorry to hear that you’ve needed radiotherapy for cancer in your vocal cord. This must have been an incredibly difficult time.

    You may have already seen this, but our Mouth care and cancer section has helpful tips on managing a dry mouth, which I hope you find useful.

    It’s also important to remember that radiotherapy can continue to have an effect for several weeks after treatment finishes, and many people find that symptoms can feel worse before they start to improve.

    If you’re struggling with weight loss or a reduced appetite, and it’s becoming difficult to manage, it would be helpful to speak with your specialist about a referral to a dietitian.

    You might also find it beneficial to contact the Cancer and Nutrition Helpline, where you can speak with specialist oncology dietitians for advice and support.

    I hope this information is helpful. Please do get back in touch if you have any further questions. If you would prefer to speak with one of our nurses on the phone,

    You can call us on 0808 808 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm (freephone).

    Jemma