Hi LinaC

I have had a radical neck dissection and salivary glands removed and throat lump but not my thyroid,  I had radiotherapy instead. Have some problems from the surgery and radio treatment but can cope fairly well. Might be able to help, if so post question. Hope your recovery is going well. Kim

Hey Kim :)
Basically I was looking to see if anyone has suffered with the same side effects from surgery. My surgery ended up lasting ten hours and have been left with ulnar nerve damage to both hands, from having been laying in the same position for so long. It's three months now and no change. Have had electrical tests done but haven't had the results yet. It's just really getting me down but then I feel guilty for feeling that way as the cancer has been removed so I should think myself lucky
Regards
Lina xXx

Hi LinaC

I'm so glad that it was possible to remove all your cancer but in so doing you have ended up with nerve damage. You shouldn't feel guilty, although I know what you mean. I too have some problems with nerve damage caused by the surgery. I had some facial paralysis causing problems with speech and dribbling food. Also problems with swallowing food and drink. I also had damage to nerves connecting to my shoulder which gave me problems lifting my right arm and problems with my little finger and the one next to it. Oedema is also a problem due to removal of lymphatic system. However I was given lots of various excercises to be done from day 1, several times a day. I followed these to the letter and now 2 years on from the initial surgery, have only a little problem lifting my arm above shoulder height and occasionally have a weak corner of my lip which sometimes droops or twitches but can speak OK without slurring. I have no feeling in my neck and part of my ear and side of my face. Obviously each patient has different problems, but I would ask to see specialists who may be able to give you a set of excercises to do, this might be the best way forward. Your appointed McMillan nurse can help you navigate your way through the system to get the help you need. Hope this is of help. Kim