Caring for someone with neck cancer

My husband started radiotherapy for base of tongue and neck cancer a week ago. He is feeling very tired and suffering  almost permanent headaches. Has anyone else experienced this and can you offer any helpful tips? Any advice would be much appreciated.

  • Hello Dianarose

    I'm sorry to hear about your husband's diagnosis and that he's started to experience some of the side effects associated with his treatment. I know from reading many posts here on the forum from people who have been through this treatment that it can be grueling at times. Do speak to his nurse specialist if he's been allocated one so that they can help you both keep on top of things as much as possible over the coming weeks. 

    In the meantime, I wanted to suggest that you might find it helpful to have a look at this thread where many members have shared their experiences about caring for a loved one or going through treatment themselves, for head and neck cancers. Hopefully, you will find some helpful information there and I'm sure if you post to introduce yourself you will get some messages from others. I do know that  has also recently posted about her husband who is due to start his radiotherapy shortly. It may be that the two of you can connect to offer each other some support whilst you're going through this journey. 

    If you'd like to talk with one of our nurses at any point you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and offer any advice, information and support they can. 

    Keep in touch Dianarose. We're here to listen and offer any support we can. 

    Sending you both my best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator