Sinus Issues

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I had been diagnosed with hpv tonsil cancer.  I had both tonsils removed and TORS proceedure done with a neck disection.  I have clear margins.  I had my first CT scan post surgery and nothing abnormal.  I find i am have pressure in my ears, sinus and headaches.   Has anyone else experienced this?  I want to be excited about my news, but am worried something else might be wrong?

  • Hi Joe

    Chemoradio for Tonsil Cancer HPV16+ finished treatment in June 2023

    Dec 2024 I had a similar problem after an episode of Flu...antibiotics from my GP cleared it up...maybe make an appointment?

    Peter

  • Hi Joe_B and a warm welcome to our group. 

    I am almost 7 months post chemo radiotherapy treatment for T2N1M0 left tonsil and lymph node. I was experiencing deafness after 4 core biopsies to my lymph node, before treatment started. After treatment, I then started getting ear ache and headaches. My oncologist prescribed me antibiotics, unfortunately they didn’t help and she then referred me to audiology where it was found that my eardrum is severely damaged. They are not sure if it is due to treatment. I have been referred to my ENT consultant on the two week wait pathway and am seeing him on Friday for further investigation. 
    Let your oncologist know what’s happening and they will point you in the right direction very quickly. 
    All the best 

    Denise 

  • Hi Joe_B

    Welcome to the group and fabulous news about clear CT 

    Ear , nose and throat are all so closely related and can cause issues after surgeries/chemoradiation. Since my treatment over a year ago I have ear and sinus issues plus the occasional headache.

    I sleep propped up with four large pillows this helps with ears and sinuses plus I use vicks day and night.

    I agree with Denise and Peter.speak to your CNS /contact at the hospital either email or phone to let them know what’s going on they may ask you to come in for an apt or seek help from your Gp .

    Best of luck , once sorted celebrate your results!

    Debbie

    Tonsil Cancer T4Nb2M0 +16

  • Used Vick's inhaler....GP also suggested that I buy SterimaR breathe easy daily micro nasal spray...seemed to help...not available on prescription...inexpensive

  • My husband was dx with hpv pos oropharynx cancer stage 1. He only had dry mouth and had to self care daily w creams and rinses.  He also had a tonsillectomy and experienced pain post surgery.  Can I ask why you had a neck dissection?  I’m sure what symptoms you are having are part of the healing process.  

  •  Can I ask why you had a neck dissection?

    Joe might be in the PATHOS trial. A neck dissection is part of that pathway. 

    Dani 

    Base of tongue cancer. T2N0M0 6 weeks Radiotherapy finished January 2019

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  • Hi Joe - sounds like we’ve had exactly the same treatment. I had a lot of strange sensations in my ear for several months - I was told it was the result of the surgery and it was on the side where they took a lot more away. I’d mention it to your CNS to be on the safe side.