Hi Kathie, We are in the UK as well. I agree with the others, maybe the rinsing and spitting is partly psychological, but it's worth asking for the swallowing barium test. They did that with Martin, where he had to swallow wet bread and yogurts and they watch it on camera and analyse why there is difficulty swallowing. Also for the dryness, ask your consultant for samples, we got Biotene, and various other gels to test. At his worse as well when Martin was dependent on the nasal tube, we were loaned a nebulizer and I used to make Martin do a 20 minute session twice a day. It did work a little with the moisture in the mouth, all be it temporarily. Do you have a care officer? We were assigned one and she did get stuff done. If not just hound and pester the nurses or dietician until someone does something. You have to nag nag nag with the NHS I have learnt, but nag enough and they will look after you. Which is your hospital? We are under the Royal Marsden.


Girlfriend to Martin 49 years old at diagnosis
Diagnosed with SCC unknown primary June 2008.
Cancer found in single node Stage N2A (3 to 6cm).
Tonsilectomy 16th june, Radical modified neck dissection left side 30th june.
30 TX radiotherapy ended 9th October
First comparative study scan came back clear