Thanks to everyone who responded lately! Dad is still in rough shape. We thought it was the denture causing the severe pain, but that's not it. He had a head scan a week or so ago and we have yet to hear the results from that. His ear, nose and throat doc feels that a saliva gland in the rear of his mouth is draining, thus causing the pain. His rad doctor says it could be a pinched nerve!! His head and neck specialist said at last month's check up that the radiation continues to work on your body for 4 - 6 months after the treatments end, thus causing the throat pain. Everyone has their own opinion as to what could be the pain source! He has started on pain meds, finally, but they caused severe constipation. He dealt with that for a week and a half, then had diahrea for 3 days and lost about 6 more pounds..........which he CANNOT afford to do. I am hoping and praying that at his next visit to the Head and Neck specialist at The James Center at Ohio State says no more fooling around with the weight gain shakes, it's time for a feeding tube. Will he still be able to drink a shake or 2 a day with the tubes?? I know he will need to continue his fluid intake with the tube. Also, when and if they decide to put in the tube, is it an out patient procedure?? Is it very painful?

Many thanks to all of you for all your great advice and support. It is so hard to watch your loved one's go thru this. It is great to have a sounding board to participate in. Love and prayers to all of you and your families!!!!!!