Barry was also sick and had nausea and reflux after his PEG placement and lost 3 pounds in four days from not being able to eat much (this before treatment even started). His RO prescribed Reglan (metroclopramide) and that helped immensely. It moves material out of the stomach more quickly and really got rid of the problem for him. Might ask about this.

The whole concern became moot when his PEG (and a number of other patient's) all failed on same day (a bad batch) -- the balloon deflated and they just came out. Since Barry was still eating by mouth and was at start of 6th week (yes, it can be done) they left it out. He is still eating (soft stuff, scrambled eggs, soups etc.) and will be through treatment tomorrow (we hope, tomo machine stll down argghhh!)

For the thick mucous, try Mucinex -- OTC and also as a prescription -- a timed release guafenisen tablet that really thins the secretions. Barry takes 1-2 every 12 hours.

Btw, the feeling that the back of the throat is dry may be more perception than reality -- according to our dental oncologist the radiation actually affects how the nerves back there perceive moisture. I know Barry was complaining that the back of his throat was dry and the doc showed him in a mirror that it was as wet as the front. (He also got amiphostine)

Gail