Saliva glands improvements?

Yes for me improvement over four years with the most in the first two. 

Thank you so much for replying so quickly!

You’re very welcome. You will get steps back all the way along the journey nit just at the beginning. Don’t despair, things do move along. 

2+ years since chemoradiotherapy finished, my saliva glands have improved but I still have days when they seem to have stubborn moments, just have to keep them hydrated or chew sugar free gum, Lidl and ALDI brands are very good, contain xylitol which stimulates the saliva glands. For night time dry mouth? I use Biotene gel to keep things right.

Thank you for your kind reply

Hi Angela I’m also almost one year post RT and I still really struggle each night with a dry mouth. During the day it’s improved unless I do a lot of talking so I keep water or mouth gel close at hand. Most nights I wake at least 3 times when my tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. Zylimelts help but I don’t like leaving them in my mouth although others love them.

The lack of saliva really affects my eating and after a couple of mouthfuls I’ve had enough x

It's really horrible  isn't it Sue. I have become so despondent with it all and I have such a sore tounge as well.  So very fed up. Do you ever have days where it's not too bad and feel almost back to normal.  I don't think I've ever had that in the last 9 months,  although some days are better than others. Just going through a very rough patch at the moment. Thank you for replying. 

• Angela 

Ps. I feel the same about the zylimelts. 

I sympathise totally with you. I was ok after my tongue and neck dissection but since the RT my tongue has never felt right. Also I feel that I’m lisping when I talk which puts me off what I’m saying! Like you I feel like I haven’t turned a corner yet and just want to be able to eat and drink anything I want. X

Oh god yes! Wouldn't that be so lovely to feel like you've turned a corner! It's the set backs I find so disheartening 

 Yes. Meal times are suchba challenge. It's on my mind as soon as I wake up!