head & neck cancer

Hi Art...... Hello again.  Welcome to our little  group snd I’m glad you decided to join us though of course it’s sad that you had to. 
I am Dani. I am 2 years out of treatment with radiotherapy for cancer at the back of my tongue. Although I did get an ulcerated tongue I never had any significant throat swelling. What I did have snd what is common is a build up of thick mucous in the mouth which can be bothersome. 
I’m not sure ice cold water is the answer. Drinking a lot to help thin the mucous can help as can a nebuliser. You sound like a strong candidate for a free one from your hospital. You could ask them ASAP and if they don’t  give them out get one from Amazon? Some of us also kept a humidifier by the bedside. 
It might be worth asking your team if they might recommend a drug called Carbocysteine which some people find helpful to thin the mucous. 

All the best and come back to ask anything else. There are lots of helpful people here. 

Hi ArtB

I'm wondering whether the swelling your oncologist is referring to is a possible late effect of radiotherapy.  In some people narrowing of the pharynx or oesophagus may occur making it difficult to swallow solid food.  There are procedures which can be carried out to stretch the areas if necessary.  If I were you I would clarify all this with your oncologist.

Good luck.

Linda x 

Hi

I can only speak from personal experience (i was treated for tonsil and lymph node cancer)

I didnt experience any swelling in my windpipe- in fact as the tumour began to shrink, by breathing improved and i was able to sleep on my back again.

My main symptoms were ulcers, an intense salt taste, pain and constant mucus.

Trev

Hi Art I think your Oncologist is  the best person to speak to and they in turn will probably have a lung specialist to address any issues you have to deal with. Regarding swelling etc we  are all different and effects differ. Something that does help is making a warm pint mouthwash every morning with half a teaspoon of salt and bicarb of soda and rinse through out the day. I havnt had one issue with my mouth bar the white stuff All the Best Regards Min