Hi Michael --

Are you taking Mucinex tablets? This has really been a god-send to Barry, especially when he had that chest infection and was being overwhelmed with nasty deep chest phelgm (on top of the radiation-induced mucous and throat phelgm). He stll takes them as they help wih the latter and he still has some infection-related stuff tho the most recent blood culture was clear (just residual gunk, like after a bad cold or flu).

If dairy products induce more phelgm (something Barry noticed for a while but not now, maybe because of the Mucinex) try Jello or blended canned fruit, or fruit nectar. Barry says to try the mango nectar as it is least likely to burn and 8 oz. are 140 calories. If it burns your throat, dilute it with spring water. Drink things at room temperature.

Also, try some very soft scrambled eggs -- Barry's up maikng his today, he uses olive oil and whole milk, and also sprinkles in shredded cheddar cheese. Use soy milk if dairy is a problem. These are extra-large organic eggs with omega-3 fatty acids so are not too unhealthy! Use lots of water or juice to get down if you have to --

Good luck,
Gail and Barry


CG to husband Barry, dx. 7/21/05, age 66, SCC rgt. tonsil, BOT, 2 nodes (stg. IV), HPV+, tonsillectomy, 7x carboplatin, 35x tomoTherapy IMRT w/ Ethyol @ Johns Hopkins, thru treatment 9/28/05, HPV vaccine trial 12/06-present. Looking good!