Therapeutic Procedures

Information for Patients Receiving Radiation to the Head and Neck

Approximately two weeks after your first treatment, you may begin to experience side effects or symptoms caused by radiation therapy. These symptoms may continue throughout the treatment period, and gradually disappear after you have completed treatment. Your physician will tell you which symptoms you are likely to experience, when you will notice them and how long they will last. It is important that you follow the appropriate.

Instructions to minimize your discomfort.

Sore mouth and/or throat:

Mix 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a quart of warm Water. Rinse your mouth and gargle with this solution at least 4-6 times per day, especially after each meal and before going to sleep at night. You may remove food particles from your teeth with a soft toothbrush or foam rubber toothette. Do not use any other mouthwash, gargle or lozenges unless ordered by a physician. These products contain alcohol and can be very drying to your mouth. If swallowing food becomes painful or your mouth becomes very sore, tell you nurse or physician. Medication is available to ease this discomfort.

Do not smoke cigarettes, cigars or a pipe and do not chew tobacco.

Do not drink alcoholic beverages.

Do not eat foods or drink beverages, which are hot in temperature or highly seasoned. Those served lukewarm or at room temperature will be swallowed more comfortable.

Foods, which are soft and moist, will be swallowed more comfortably than those, which are firm and dry.

Eat smaller portions of food more frequently.

Thickened saliva and dry mouth:

Use a humidifier or vaporizor in your main living area during the day and in your bedroom at night.

Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless candy for oral lubrication.

We suggest that you try to drink 4-6 eight-ounce glasses of fluid per day. You may want to carry a small plastic bottle of water with you when you leave home.

There are many over-the-counter artificial saliva products available, you may try these to see if one works for you. Your physician may place you on a medication for dry mouth if it becomes severe.

Taste changes:

Taste changes may occur during therapy. Different foods may all seem to taste alike, have a slightly bitter taste or no taste at all. It is very important that you continue to eat a well-balanced diet and avoid losing weight Meat commonly becomes distasteful after several weeks of treatment. If you are unable to tolerate it, be sure to supplement this source of protein by eating more fish, poultry, eggs , cheese or milk products. Foods, which are slightly chilled, may be better tolerated, such as milkshakes, Jell-O, pudding, etc.

Hoarseness:

When your voice starts to become hoarse, speak in a whisper. Trying to speak in a normal tone will further irritate you vocal cords. Restrict the use of your voice for the remainder of the treatment period and for one month after the completion of treatment. This will promote the healing of your vocal cords and return of a good quality voice.