Anne, sorry to hear of Gordon's troubles. But putting it in perspective, I wasn't able to eat anything solid - even oatmeal - for at least 3 months post rads. So he's ahead of my game at any rate!

My RO was always telling me to gargle with water and baking soda. It seemed counterintuitive to me, figured it would irritate things, but she insisted that it would help. And she's been right about everything so far.

Have you tried viscous lidocaine? It's tough to get it way back there but it might provide some relief. Although, as you write, things are getting better. Mainly I'm sorry to hear that your doctors didn't prepare you for this.

All the best to you both.
David 2

David 2
SCC of occult origin 1/09 (age 55)| Stage III TXN1M0 | HPV 16+, non-smoker, moderate drinker | Modified radical neck dissection 3/09 | 31 days IMRT finished 6/09 | Hit 15 years all clear in 6/24 | Radiation Fibrosis Syndrome kicked in a few years after treatment and has been progressing since | Prostate cancer diagnosis 10/18