HiJack,
That sounds very similar to my experience. I wouldn't be too hasty to get off the pain meds. I was on them for a good 2-3 months post treatment. Even in post Tx, pain management is a major component of recovery. I has been proven scientifically to improve healing. Make sure that Eric is managing the constipation issues carefully.

My expectations were the same as Eric's post Tx and the outcome was the same also. One must have patience as the healing process post Tx is VERRRY slow. Measured in 3 week increments I was told and that was about right.

I was constantly experimenting with foods and my wife was very gracious in buying a lot of food that ended up in the garbage. I would get urges for certain foods and then couldn't eat it. Keep experimenting - many of those foods be ok again eventually. The only thing I still have difficulty with are overcooked meats and breads. The dogs are still getting the pizza crusts these days. I don't do well with dry things in general. I can do chips if I have dip with it, bread with olive oil (and balsamic vinegar of course) or lots of butter.

Pasta's are the easiest to swallow. Cream sauces seem to work better that tomato sauces (at least in the beginning while my throat was sensitive to acids). Watch the food temperature early on -lukewarm is best.

I have to laugh at the folks who post how good they feel after a week of radiation. Are they going to be in for a big surprise or what (and humbling experience) in the very near future!?!?

I can say that now because I am over 6 months post treatment. I still have some off days. There are still some minor effects from the radiation.

He should actually start feeling a small amount of improvement in the next few weeks.