I've been encouraged by this forum for a few weeks now -- my husband Stephen finished radiation and chemotherapy for aggressive tongue cancer 7 weeks ago. Just knowing that other people have made it through the craziness of the awful side effects has helped us get through the toughest times. (Thank you!) I look forward to sharing some of the things we've learned along the way that might help smooth the path a bit for others as well. -- Susan

Hi Susan and Stephen
Welcome to the forum. I have only been a member for about a month but have found the opportunity to share my own experiences and hear about those of other people invaluable. Everyone is really friendly and helpful.
All the best
Gwyn

Hello Susan and Stephen

Welcome to the board.

Best wishes
Vinod

Hi Susan and Stephen, welcome to the forum. I'm sure you will find it very usefull. Hagg.

Hi! Susan & Stephen
I have gone down the same road as you and finished my treatments 13th of September 2007 and am always available to chat. The Forum has all kinds of very helpfull participants and we are a good source of help, however Dr Joshi is the best for Qualified Help.
Stay Strong
Love TREV

Trev et al.,

Thanks for the encouraging words -- "stay strong" is good advice I've been taking to heart. (Stephen's been doing that all along, but I'm finally getting the hang of it.)

Has anyone had trouble with Eustachian tubes being blocked up? We're wondering how long this will last for Stephen -- for both ears, but especially the left (RT and chemo ended Nov. 18 for micro-invasive submucosal squamous cell carcinoma, with semi-hemiglossectomy for tumor at base of tongue). It's starting to drive him a bit crazy (the first thing he's actually complained about), and the side of his throat where he had the most rays (left side, near site of tumor) is painful off and on, especially near the ear after coughing up "stuff."

He sees his doctor (ENT surgeon) on Tues. to check it out, but any feedback in the meantime would be welcome. (Trying to fend off the negative expectations of more trouble....)

Thankfully, the stringy saliva has finally let up to be a minor nuisance (didn't want to believe that would take two months), and now it's mostly dry mouth. Appreciated the tip someone noted re "Stop" spray. That's been very helpful.

Also, I'm wondering if magnesium supplements or LOW doses of vitamin E would be helpful as follow-up to Stephen's chemo from a while back, to negate possible side effects later (cisplatin treatments were on Sept. 27, Oct. 18, and Nov. 8). Any thoughts?

Susan