Some ROs believe everyone should get a feeding tube pre treatment. Others believe that most people do not need a feeding tube (or that people can get one inserted during treatment if it becomes necessary). My RO was in the second camp and I made it through without a feeding tube, although it was tough and I lost 50lbs. I'm glad I made it through without a feeding tube as I credit the requirement to keep swallowing with allowing me to eat normal food as quickly as I did post treatment.

If you do get a feeding tube, make sure you eat and drink by mouth for as long as possible even though it will be painful. If you do start using the tube (some end up not needing it), make sure that you are still swallowing water or liquids daily to keep your swallowing muscles working. Some people have issues with swallowing post treatment, which can come from lack of use/atrophy, radiation damage or other factors. Continuing to use the muscles and doing swallowing and stretching exercises should help reduce the likelihood of problems.