Hi, I'm just a few weeks ahead of you as far as treatment. I fished up radiation treatment on 12/29/03, 8 weeks ago.

First off, I'm feeling SO Much better than before - each week gets easier & better, BUT.....

Yes, I am still tired a lot. And there doesn't seem to be rhyme or reason to it. Post-surgery or during rad treatments I would have an energetic day and then be exhausted the next 2 days. Now, my fatigue doesn't seem to be as predictable. Although I suspect, as I am feeling better, I end up doing more of my "normal" activities and forget that I am still recovering.

I'm lucky that I didn't have any bowel trouble - never needed the various bottles and prescriptions the doctor sent me home with (hey, I find I need a second bathroom counter or medicine closet just to hold all my meds, rinses, toothbrushes, etc!!)

But I do drink a lot of water. Finally, last night at dinner I put a pitcher of water next to me rather than jumping up and refilling my large glass 4 times/meal. Also I don't know about diet - I'm not eating huge amounts of anything, but I usually have yogurt and soy milk daily.

The thick saliva, spit/mucus was a big problem for me too. I'm happy to report it is much better now. One thing helpful were some "lollipop" dental sponges I got from the drs office. They look like q-tips with a green sponge at the tip. The were great for sweeping away the the stuff that mixes with food and never seems to get out of your mouth. I just checked and it is called "DenTips" disposable oral swab, by Medline Accucare. (Also good post-surgery or during rad treatments whenbrushing is tough).

Although I am definitely eating more food, a bigger variety of food, and getting more taste back I still have trouble eating (radiation and losing 1/2 my tongue, and a split lower jaw). Like, the fatigue/energy level it doesn't seem to be predictable. Somedays I eat ok. Then later, I have trouble or no interest in eating the same item. Some days I just don't have an appetite or feel like chewing. (that's why i have a lot of yogurt/soy milk. Cans of ensure get soo dull)

I thought my weight loss was leveling off, but it seems to still be decreasing. I haven't minded losing the weight, but worry about the CONTINUEING loss.

I too think of writing the "Get Cancer - Lose Weight" guide. Cutting off part of your tongue, or having a growing tumor inside your mouth also helps. I joke sometimes with friends that I finally lost weigt, but now I have scars instead (and talk funny)!

Its good to be able to laugh about things and share with this bulletin board!
Thanks everyone!
Michelle