Brickster, I see we have a few things in common!

If your cough happens when eating or swallowing it is possibly related to radiation. I had severe problems with inhaling food or water for 3 or more years after treatments. Happily these problems have mostly resolved.

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.