Welcome to OCF. Im so sorry to read everything your father has been thru in such a short amount of time.

Im wondering if your father has been treated at a Comprehensive Cancer Center (CCC)? What about if he has gone for a second opinion? If not then I would advise you to make appointments ASAP at one of the countrys top CCCs. Those facilities have a team based approach which means all the specialists work together as a team on each case (patient).

Ive seen individuals who have been thru round after round of this. Some have battled their illness for over 5 years. Every time they eliminated the cancer, it returned each time with a renewed vengeance.

In response to your questions.....

#1) Unfortunately the only treatments to eliminate this type of cancer are surgery and radiation with or without chemo. Alone chemo can only shrink the tumors but not eliminate them entirely. There may be some trials going on that would help your father. Ive seen a couple patients post about this on here.


#2) Ive heard of this happening before but cant remember much about it. Im sorry I have the worlds worst memory sometimes.

#3) Ask for the nurses to use a suction machine on your father. The doctor can also write a prescription for a portable suction machine so your father can use this at home. Rinsing his mouth at least 4 times daily with a mixture of 16 oz warm water, 1 tsp baking soda and 1 tsp salt might help with the phlegm. A water pik used on its lowest setting can also help get rid of the gunk.

#4) As mentioned above, I have seen a few patients in similar situations. Its unusual which is why its so important to be treated at a CCC.

I want you to know you are not alone with this. Our family here understands how terrible oral cancer can be and how difficult the treatments and recover are.

Wishing you, your father and family all the very best with everything.