Hi,
We are going to NYC (Beth Israel)to be evaluated to see if my husband is a candidate for brachtherapy. Our radiologist does it but he doesn't do it for base of tongue. We are three weeks out from the neck dissection. (they removed 30 lymph nodes, non were positive) He's going for his simulation on Tuesday, I think that the IMRT radiation will start after we get back from NY. Originally, back in July we went to Fox/Chase Cancer Center in Phila., they basically told us the same thing that the docs around here are telling us. I have been in touch with the doctors alot and have been very pleased to see that they are working together as a team to treat my husband the best way with the least damage to him. Our oncologist/hemotolgist along with the radiologist was the one who suggested we look into brachtherapy as an alternative to chemo and radiation together. We will be going over the side effects of radiation with our doc on Tuesday but I was wondering what things can I buy and have on hand for when he needs them. What works best for radiation burns on the outside and the inside of your throat. I know that he will always need a bottle of water, but what about skin lotion, toothpaste, mouthwash. I've read that you don't want anything with alcohol, but what worked best for all of you? and what kinds of things can I get right now to have on hand? Thanks for your input and concern.