Cancer Research UK main site

What is further down the line from 10 week post treatment [chemoradiotherapy] tumor on base of tongue

Toffeeboy
Offline

Hi all

Was diagnosed T4aN0M0 in April 2024 and have had 6 weeks of Radiotherapy and 2 Chemo sessions

PEG was used and removed 3 months as eating normal and maintaining weight

Have had many side effects, mucus build up the worst in my opinion, ulcers in mouth, pain yawning and eating until turned corner

Current status, puffy chin and awkward swallowing liquid when wake up but improves to eat breakfast and sore turning neck sideways, plus hoarse voice via dry mouth for a few hours

MRI scan of neck and full body PET scans due next 2 and half weeks

Question 1....Are there others who been here and found to have late, or very late side effects to be aware of ?  

Question 2.....Doing minimal things like pottering in garden, weeding, dead heading, hoeing, that I feel so exhausted doing nowt in my eyes as am active at 64, and hope to go swimming regularly again but feel it may be a bridge too far as early days ?

  • Hello Toffeeboy

    I'm sorry to hear that you've recently completed treatment for tongue cancer. I know from the many posts that I've read in this community over the years just how difficult treatment and recovery can be. It's understandable that you have had some struggles and that you may be feeling frustrated with how slow the recovery may feel at times. 

    We have quite a few members here who have been through treatment for different oral cancers. I know that many of them will understand some of what you've described. I'd suggest having a look at this thread and maybe replying to introduce yourself to some of the members there. Hopefully, you will find some reassurance in the stories that they have shared. You might also want to have a read through some of the blog that  has shared the link to on that thread. I know other members have said how helpful they've found it to be. 

    If you think it may be useful to talk things through with one of our nurses you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to offer any advice, information and support they can. 

    In the meantime Toffeeboy, I hope that your recovery continues to move forward and that, with time, you manage to get back to doing your garden and swimming on a regular basis. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Offline in reply to Moderator Jenn

    Hi What you’re feeling is normal  it’s early  you might not think it but my oncologist said he was aiming  for cure me but he would also take a year  out of my life he did both. Eating will take time I’m 6 years out of treatment. 
    my blog below might help. 
    www.radioactiveraz.Wordpress.com 

    as for swimming go for it I ride my cycle. We are over in Spain at the moment and can ride up to 60 km a day. Don’t let Cancer  define  you and don’t let it rule your life. There’s a good life to be had  after treatments finished  I was 61 when diagnosed I’m now 67 and have a good

    Hazel x

Speak to a nurse

Quick links

Follow us

Registered with Fundraising Regulator (logo)
Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ.