Margaet, concerning the muscous, we are 11 wks past rads and I can say my hubby is still spitting but maybe 10% of what is was. His seemed to last longer than most. The thick stuff subsided maybe 6wks post treatment. It was the most annoying part for him. I truly understand about your hubby not wanting to try anything in his mouth, mine felt the same. Concerning hydration he would have it by IV 2-3 times a week at the MO office. Ask them for fluids it really helps a lot. Have you tried a warm mist humidifer? that is what worked for us or should I say helped a bit. Nothing we tried really cut the ugly stuff. Time is the only thing. Hang in there. There is an end to this.