Diet

  • 1 reply
  • 37 subscribers
  • 92 views

I am 63 have hpv pos 16 oropharynx scc. Stage 1. I have completed chemo and radiation neatly a month ago. Everything tastes like metal when will my tastebuds come back and eat normal again?  I’m drinking protein drinks and bone broth. And is chemo or radiation the culprit?  

in the beginning I was told this is a curable cancer but the challenges I’ve been through so far are tough.  

  • Hello markmac,

    Thanks for getting in touch with us during what sounds like a difficult time for you. I’m Linda, one of the nurses from our support line.

    I hope you are finding the head and neck cancer forum useful. It can be helpful to share experiences with others in a similar situation.

    You mention that the challenges of having treatment have been tough so far, there is no right or wrong way to cope with it. Having treatment can have a physical and emotional affect on you. Our information on cancer and emotions may help.

    Unfortunately, both the chemotherapy and radiotherapy can cause changes to your taste. With time this can improve. You may find our information on eating problems and cancer and these tips on coping with taste changes useful.  

    I would encourage you to let your cancer team know how this is affecting you. Normally, within the team, you would have access to a dietician who gives advice about diet and a speech and language therapist (SLT), who can support with communication and swallowing problems.

    I hope this helps.

    Take care and best wishes,

    Linda J.  (Cancer Information Nurse Specialist)

    You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email or use webchat.

    Ref: LJ/SMc