Jaw pain

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Hi Everyone 

I have been doing okay, I’m back at work, and running most days, training for the London marathon in aid of Macmillan. I need a bit of advice please as my husband thinks I am being too anxious. Recently the back of my tongue feels sore and swollen again, like it did for a few weeks after my operation. When I chew my jaw just under my ear ( same side as operation) hurts. I am scared that it has come back. I have shone a torch in my mouth and everything looks okay. Could it be the reduction in my pregabalin making the nerves fire up again. I started off on 300mg a day, I have now been on 75mg for a few weeks. I wondered if anyone else felt okay, then to feel a bit sore etc later on. Thank you :) 

  • Hi Debbie. It's likely just the healing and as you say the reduction in your meds. There's no harm in contacting your CNS to put your mind at rest though. Early treatment failure is extremely rare so hold on to that.

    Well done on your marathon training. I know how hard it is even without a history of cancer. My marathon medal is rusty now but the memory endures untarnished

    Dani 

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

    I BLOGGED MY TREATMENT 

    Macmillan Support Line -  0808 808 00 00 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

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  • Hi

    I think the best we can say is that it comes and goes.  You could well be reacting to the draw down of the drugs and I think only time will tell as you get to know how your new body feels.  My tongue often feels like it is swelling and in the past couple of months the tip has become quite tender and sensitive.

    I have been there with the all clear only for it to be found a year later so I do understand your anxiety.  Try not to live your life always worrying about what may happen. 

    If I am ever concerned I always allow some time to pass (and I have got myself into a state doing that) to see if it settles down.  If I am still unsure then I ring the hospital and they get me in quickly and see what is causing my concern.  Thus far, with 3 false alarms behind me, they have never once told me that I am being silly or wasting their time.  So, if you are unsure and can't wait until your next regular check, give them a ring.

    Peter
    See my profile for more details of my convoluted journey
  • Hi Debbie

    I too get a sore tongue/swelling/ear ache/jaw ache etc on and off still.  I have been checked each time and everything looks fine.   

    I agree with Dani and Peter.  If you're at all concerned contact your CNS for reassurance - they really don't mind and would rather you are proactive.

    Linda x 

  • Thank you Dani, I’m seeing my consultant on the 6th of May, so will speak to him. I seem to panic every time I get a twinge, which is stupid. Thank you for the reassurance. Wow you’ve done a marathon, well done, I’m looking forward to it, even if I have to crawl over the finish line x

  • Thank you Peter. My husband tells me off because my operation was 8 months ago, and he said I’m not giving the healing process time. I love how everyone replies and gives the best advice. I know friends and family try their best, but it’s people on here who have been through it and understand more 

  • Hi Linda. Thank you, I really appreciate the support and advice on here. My husband has hid my torch, so I can’t look anymore. Thank you everyone 

  • My husband has hid my torch, so I can’t look anymore.

    My husband wouldn’t dare. Slight smile I still check weekly. I have a torch and an illuminated mirror. My oncologist says it’s a good idea. 

    Dani 

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

    I BLOGGED MY TREATMENT 

    Macmillan Support Line -  0808 808 00 00 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

    Community Champion badge
  • It's not stupid Debbie.  It's perfectly understandable and sensible.

    Linda x