Radiotherapy neck region

Hi again FranklinMac I was told the same information before I had my 10 zaps then a further 5 zaps on my neck.

The initial 10 zaps were actually to ‘every’ Lymph-node in my body, it was very intense treatment as it was getting me ready for my first Allo (donor) Stem Cell Transplant.

The second 5 zaps was a top up on my neck nodes before my second Allo SCT……. and honestly I was fine. I found the fatigue the worst due to the regular trips to the hospital, my skin got dry but I just used all mouth care products I was given to the letter and had no real problems with regards to swallowing, bleeding gums, pain and being able to talk.

It’s like all the information we get about chemo effects - some have all the problems but others don’t.

I do hope who get through this fine and it does the job.

Hi, I had exactly the same treatment as you've described back in June. It wasn't nice I'm afraid but not horrendous. It started off with no side effects really but after about 5 sessions I started to feel incredibly exhausted, I fell asleep in the car everyday on the way back. Then I got sores on one side of my tongue, cheek and throat. The hospital gave me some hydrocortisone mouthwash, definitely ask for that. Also gargling with soluable paracetamol helped a lot as did salt water. Loads of rest, tell her not to do anything but concentrate on getting through the sessions. Its hard going. My voice went a bit hoarse but not too bad. 6 months on I'm in remission and no ill effects from the radiotherapy, I get the odd twinge in my neck. Skin was fine despite having very fair skin but moisturise for sure.

Your wife has my absolute sympathy, but it will be over before you know it. Lots of love and tea helps. Good luck to you both x