Hank,

As my RO explained to me, radiation interrupts the ability of cancer cells DNA to divide and thus reproduce and proliferate. This effect continues in these cells for up to three weeks after radiation is discontinued.

It�s the worst effects of the radiation on the rest of our bodies and healthy cells that continue on for two to three months and those are just the worst effects (pain, swallowing, taste saliva etc...)Many of these problems continue for years in a diminished capacity.

You can post more about how your issues are progressing as time goes on and will find that there are many here who have been through this and will give you all the help and advice you need.

Best


Kelly
Male
48, SCC (Soft Palet) Rt.,
Stage 1, T3n0m0,
Dx, 8-09, Start IMRT 35 9-2-09 end 10-21-09
04-20-10 NED
8-11 recurrence, node rt. neck N2b
10-11 33 IMRT w/chemo wkly
3-12-12 PET - residual cancer
4-12 5 treatments with Cyberknife & Erbitux
6-19-12 Pet scan CLEAR
12-3-12 PET - CLEAR