Hi.
After completing 30 sessions of Radiotherapy and 2 of Chemotherapy (For Tongue Cancer (HPV), I am still unable to sip water or eat. I had a PEG tube fitted two weeks after the treatment. started (back on 13th July. So, It's 12 weeks since the end of my treatment. Today, I had a video fluoroscopy (Barium X-Ray). It seems that I can swallow but whatever I swallow (just a sip of liquid), does not go down. I think about 2 or 3 drips made it to my stomach. The rest comes back up. The hospital couldn't give me any explanations at the moment but have advised not to try sipping anything in case it goes down the wrong way. I have also developed lymphoedema as a result of the radiotherapy.
I do have MRI and a CT/PET scans in the next 10 days and an appointment with the multi-Disciplinary team at the beginning of December. The reason for this appointment is to see if the Radio and Chemo have done their job. I was told today that they will also look at the results of today's tests.
Has anyone any experience of this please as I have to wait till December now to see what the MDT say.
Thanks - Steve
Hi Steve.
Sorry to hear you’re in trouble but don’t despair. I’m sure something can be done, just make sure you tell them at your next review. In fact I might be tempted to contact your CNS to get an appointment sooner.
I can’t personally report experience but there are a few people here who have had a narrowing of their oesophagus resulting in just what you describe.
You can get the area dilated if that is indeed the problem.
I’ll see if I can find any links for you.
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Has anyone any experience of this please as I have to wait till December now to see what the MDT say.
There are a few posts here
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Good evening Steve, it took me three attempts to pass the swallow test because mine was leaking where the surgery had not quite healed up. Maybe the nerves/muscles still need to recover from the surgery or as Dani mentioned the esophagus may need dilation to allow liquid etc to pass easier, i know a few people who had to have this done and still have to have it done from time to time. Definitely worth pushing for an earlier meeting with your consultant. Good luck , take care.
Chris
Its sometimes not easy but its worth it !
