Hi,I was diagnosed with T4NoMo head and neck cancer following a tumour to my throat.My consultant said it is non operable and I am undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy for it.Will the treatment I’m having cure me if they cannot operate and completely remove the tumour,or if it is cured is there a chance cancer will return at some point.
Dear 231160,
Thank you for getting in touch. My name is Fiona and I’m one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists here on the Macmillan Support Line. I see that you’re also a member of head and neck cancer forum, I hope that you’re finding it to be a supportive space for you.
I’m sorry to hear that you’ve been diagnosed with throat cancer. This must be a worrying time for you and I’m sure you are going through a range of emotions. It’s understandable that you have questions about your diagnosis and treatment. There is advice and information about support here that you might find useful.
There are many factors that will affect how effective your surgery and chemoradiation therapy will be, including the stage and grade of your cancer, the exact location of it, your age, how fit you are and whether you’re living with other health conditions. There are other treatments available too, such as targeted therapies.
We often talk about ‘remission’ after cancer treatment now, as it’s just not possible to be 100% of a ‘cure’. Only your consultant will be able to give you details about your risk of recurrence in the future.
Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatments can be a time of different emotions. Please do reach out for further support if you feel that this would be of help to you during this time.
I hope this information is helpful.
Best wishes,
Fiona S
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
Ref: FS/AW
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.
