My side effects were pretty bad, too. At one point they had to stop radiation because my neck was so badly burnt. However, they gave me some cream, which helped, and I was able to complete my treatments. I never had too much trouble talking, but proper nutrition was also a problem. I ended up in the hospital after I had completed my treatments with an IV. That scared me enough that I started using my PEG more because I didn't want to have to go back to the hospital. Make sure you get enough nutrition and stay hydrated. At one time I felt so bad that I didn't even feel like getting dressed.