Tonsil cancer

Have a left lump pop up in my neck. ENT had a look and found my left tonsil enlarged. They removed it 2 weeks later and did biopsy on it and node. Found it was a localised HPV Cancer. 6 weeks of treatment with 6 chemo and 30 radiotherapy sessions. I am half way through and going well. No sickness yet. After 12 radiotherapy sessions got mouth thrush which chemo gave me meds for and a long ulcer down one side of my tongue and soreness in my throat. Most food and plain water tastes awful. Dring milk helps. Also the mouth washes help. It's getting more difficult but manageable.  Only feel pain on eating. But have a feeding peg which will help when needed. 

  • Hello Bignose and welcome to the Cancer Chat community. 

    I'm sorry to hear about the diagnosis that has led you here but hopefully, we will be able to connect you with some of the other members here who have already successfully been through treatment for HPV tonsil cancer. 

    I know from the many posts I've read here on the forum, how difficult this treatment regime can be. It sounds like you're approaching things with a positive mindset and undoubtedly that will help you over the coming weeks and months. 

    I'm going to suggest that you read through some of the posts on this thread where many folks have shared their story of a journey with head and neck cancer. In particular, I'd suggest having a look at some of the posts by  aka Hazel who has been through treatment for HPV Tonsil cancer and has written a blog of her journey. I know that other people have found it to be a helpful source of information. 

    If you would like to talk with one of our nurses for advice and support at any point you can call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm or by posting in the Ask the Nurses topic area. 

    I do hope that the rest of your treatment progresses with minimal side effects and that you're well supported by those around you. Keep in touch Bignose and let us know how you're doing. 

    Best wishes 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator 

  • Hi Bignose

    welcome to the club that none of us really want to join chemo already it is brutal. There’s no other word for it. You’ve got a feeding peg and my best advice is as soon as you feel that you need to use it start using it you can put all your hydration nutrition and medication through it. I’m now six years post treatment for HPV tonsil cancer. I live a good life. I’ll pop details of my blog below which might help.

    www.radioactiveraz.wordpress.com

    Hazel