MTM59,
My husband, Tom, finds that glycerin suppositories help to "get things moving." Definitely mention his constipation to his doctors. There are prescription stool softeners they can prescribe.
Regarding the Erbi-rash, the radiation should take care of the beard in that area. Like Amy, I'm surprised they didn't recommend he shave, however, my husband found that shaving even his facial hair made sparse by radiation could turn into a mess with the rash. We were advised to keep the rash areas well-moisturized. They recommended udder cream, I think the brand name is Udderly Smooth (tube is spotted like a cow)--rich, but not greasy.
For the pain in his throat, Fentanyl patches are, as my husband says "the bomb!" Also, when it wasn't too painful, he tooks sips of Aloe Vera juice. Once you're done with
Erbitux, the rash will diminish, but then his skin will look like a bad sunburn. The docs prescribed a cream called Biafine for Tom and it really helps. Has your husband experienced cracking skin on his hands and feet? This is another
Erbitux side effect and we find that Biafine really helps it, too.
Hang in there! It WILL get better, but remember that the radiation keeps working for a couple-few weeks after the treatment ends. I'll echo the others here in saying get the Fentanyl patches NOW.
Joyce