Tongue swelling post surgery

Hi Ginger nut biscuit. Welcome to our  grouo sorry you’ve found yourself in her. Sorry can’t help with  tongue but I did have radiotherapy. I will tag one if our member she had similar to yiu along with radiotherapy Panch hopefully  she will pop,on. As for radiotherapy it’s not al walk in the park but if I at 61 could do it anyone can I am now 3 years post radiotherapy and happily living my life. Remember nit all if us get the same  side effects. If yiur consultant is suggesting it I would’ve  seriously consider doing it. I would imagine it’s to mop up any possible stray cells.  
Please keep,off Dr Google you’ll onky scare yourself stick to us on here. 
Hazel 

Thanks Raz. Yes it was recommended to mop up cells. But I have been told it can mean my jaw cannot heal and I have a permanent dry / sore mouth. I am in my 30’s so it sounds harsh. If your friend has an idea how long it will take before I can start eating something decent I would appreciate it! Soup is wearing thin. Thanks so much for your reply 

Hi I’ve messaged her am sure she will get back to you. Dry mouth is a side effect but to be honest it doesn’t last forever. She’s just messaged me she will reply to you shortly. 
I wouldn’t let dry mouth worry you in 3 years snd saliva is 95 %  back to normal. It was better than the alternative for me.  
Hazel xx

Thanks Hazel. I am very scared about future treatment but your experience is helpful. How is your speech now? I need to talk for my job and at the moment I am scared I won’t be able to do it ever again 

Hi

Yes, I had a hemiglossectomy in October 2020 with reconstruction from my thigh, plus a neck dissection.

It’s a hell of an operation to go through, so don’t expect too much of yourself; There’s a lot of healing to do.

I also “lost” 6 teeth which made earring pretty challenging to start with.

To be honest, I had started eating quite a bit better by 5-6 weeks. When did you last see your consultant? I’m sure they’ll be happy to see you if you have any concerns. They certainly won’t want you to start Radiotherapy if there’s a hint of something amiss.

With regards to Radiotherapy, it’s not something that they’d recommend if they didn’t think it was necessary. It will have been discussed at their MDT and will stem from the histology of your particular tumour, the margins and any spread to lymph nodes.

Mine was borderline, but after a second opinion, I went ahead.

It’s not an easy ride, but it’s still the best way to get rid of any cells that may be lurking.

I finished Jan 8th last year. Tonight I ate breaded fish, and chips with vinegar!

Feel free to message directly if you’d like

Stephanie xx

Hi my speech wasn’t effected has my tongue wasn’t effected. My cancer was in my tonsil and lymph nodes. It’s early days for you as well it all takes time to  heal  

Hazel 

Breaded fish and chips sounds like a dream to me right now! Thanks so much, that has made me feel more hopeful. 

It’s a rubbish ride but you’re young and you’ll do it.

I’ve made the equivalent of a “friend request”. Happy to chat through eating options and places to get help

Thanks - am not sure how this works but will hopefully accept