I second what Brian said -- this condition may well NOT improve on its own. In fact, it can get worse. Swallowing is a complex operation. The radiation itself can damage nerves and muscles, as well as cause scarring and fibrosis in the throat and tongue. Disuse during treatment (were you advised to continue to swallow *something* throughout?) can also lead to atrophy, much as your arm would look after 6 weeks in a cast.

You are really at the point where a swallowing evaluation by a speech/ swallowing therapist should be done.This test is usually given after the immediate inflammation and rawness is healed -- about 6-8 weeks after end of treatment.

The test involves a fluoroscopic exam while you swallow (or attempt to swallow) various substances, e.g. thick liquid, puree, etc. The doctor can then determine how well everything is working and if you are aspirating any material -- which can lead to pneumonia. He/she will then prescribe a series of exercises to strengthen and restore muscle function. Sometimes, rarely, scar tissue has to be removed.

My husband's therapist cautioned that swallowing probems can get worse, not better, over time unless identified and treated up front. This is due to progressive scarring and damage to nerve and blood supply. His ENT said the same thing, and she speaks from experience having had HNC radiation herself. Both said that these exercises may have to be continued indefinitely to maintain function.

Ask your doctors for a referral for a swallowing test and possible therapy -- it should be an integral part of your HNC treatment.

Gail