I have extreme swallowing problems that they put down to a pre-existing condition. On barium swallow they've found a large filling defect exactly where I've been describing for the last two years.
It's in the right pyriform sinus. Given 14 day referral to ENT. Lots of tears. Bad symptoms in that area - feeling of significant lump when swallowing, burning etc.
Wake up in early hours crying (of trying to). Family very upset and we're assuming the worst, as it's been there so long.
Not sure how I'll cope with being told. Scared. I'm 54, male. Married with a daughter. Been ill with a pre-existing long term condition, which can affect swallowing, for about 10 years.
Good evening JBloggs, i agree with Dani and MikeO, the cure rate for this sort of cancer is good in many cases, because yours has been there for two years im sure you have been closely monitored for cancer in this area. The only sure way to know is by having biopsies, scans etc, i have not had cancer in this specific area but i have had other head and neck cancer, my last operation was in 2010. Most head and neck cancers have a good cure rate and are normally sorted out after the first time, hopefully, your results etc come back with a positive outcome. All the best.
Chris
Its sometimes not easy but its worth it !
Not sure where or what happens next. Do they take a biopsy with that short nasoendoscope?
They will likely have you in for what’s called a panendoscopy where they will have a good look round while you are under anaesthetic and you could be booked in for an MRI and/or a PET/CT
Take somebody in with you for your consultation. An extra pair of ears is invaluable. Take notes and don’t leave till everything is explained.
Best wishes
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
A panendoscopy is simply a detailed exam of your throat under anaesthesia. An ENT surgeon does it. Ask at your appointment. Its best not to second guess just now.
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Does that mean they may refer me to another hospital so you think?
If they do suspect cancer you will certainly be referred to a cancer centre.
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
My advice would be to wait till you have a diagnosis. I know you are trying to cover all bases but your consultant will know where to send you. Living in England, of course, you are entitled to be seen at the hospital if your choice providing they have capacity.
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
Apologies Dani.
Heavens… don’t apologise. I know how you feel and it’s a dreadful place to be. I
Just one question relating to your comment: At what point should one select a hospital? Does it matter if the one which detected the cancer isn't the one carrying out any future operation or radiation? Or should we try to divert referral for diagnosis to hospital of choice at this point?
It’s usual for treatment to be done at a cancer centre so you shouldn’t need to select. I mentioned it as sometimes patients have reported that they get chemotherapy in one hospital and. radiotherapy in another. It’s not usual but it happens and it’s not ideal.
Equally if a case is really complicated it’s best being seen at a centre of excellence such as one if the big specialist centres.
But hold your horses. Let’s see what’s what first.
Dani
Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019
