Hello Elizabethr, and thank you for posting,

I’m really sorry to hear that you have a sore on your tongue after your radiotherapy for tonsil cancer. This must be a very difficult time for you, and it’s completely understandable to feel worried.

The sore on your tongue is most likely related to the radiotherapy. The lining of the mouth is very sensitive to treatment, and it’s common for people to develop soreness and ulceration, which is known as oral mucositis. This can continue throughout radiotherapy and often for a few weeks after treatment finishes.

You should start to notice gradual improvement as your mouth begins to heal, but if you’re at all concerned about the sore, do contact your hospital team. They can assess the area, advise on managing the discomfort, and prescribe pain relief or mouthwashes if needed.

We also have information about the side effects of head and neck radiotherapy that you may find helpful.

I hope things start to feel easier soon and that your recovery continues. Please feel free to get in touch again if you have any more questions. You can also call our nurse helpline on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm, if you’d prefer to speak with one of us.

Jemma