Hello all,
I was diagnosed with Head and Neck cancer in February this year, had a partial glossectomy and right neck dissection at end of March and then had 33 sessions of radiotherapy that ended in early July.
Since the end of the radiotherapy I have noticed that my speech seems worse than post hospital and I was wondering if anyone in a similar position could give advice of roughly how long it takes for real improvement in speech?
Many thanks,
Keith
Hi Kieth, hope all went ok with the operation, they normally do, on the whole, i have had a few operations and treatments including part of the base of the tongue.The radiotherapy will cause a few issues to begin with as it can weaken/damage muscles and tendons but in time it will become a lot better if you do have any concerns then a speech and language therapist (S.L.T)will be able to help with exercises as it builds up the muscles in that area, i did have a spell at doing them after my surgery and radio. It normally takes about 3 months for this sort of issue as it gives time for the radiotherapy to die down. You will get there my friend, slowly but surely, best wishes, take care.
Chris
Its sometimes not easy but its worth it !
