Hi Robin, The first visit will involve discussing the whole plan, mapping the treatment area, possibly fitting the device that holds her head in position in the machine. There should not be anything that hurts (unless they draw blood) In fact radiation treatments are painless. It is the after effects of radiation that cause some pain and the other difficulties.

What side effects she will have, will depend upon how wide an area is treated. If she is able to have IMRT, then side effects are minimized. If her teeth and jaw are in the radiation field her doctor should advise her about the effect on teeth and bone. Many people are told they will need teeth removed. This is not correct. Teeth that are in good shape and in a healthy mouth do NOT always need to be removed!

Mark, 21 Year survivor, SCC right tonsil, 3 nodes positive, one with extra-capsular spread. I never asked what stage (would have scared me anyway) Right side tonsillectomy, radical neck dissection right side, maximum radiation to both sides, no chemo, no PEG, age 40 when diagnosed.