Vin-
this seems very normal. My Mom has/had base of tongue cancer and finished her radiation and concurrent chemo at the end of August. She still continues to have major phlem issues to the point she vomits from the gagging on a pretty regular basis. It seems that many on this board have complained of the same problem. The only thing I can tell you is 1) it will get better in time. The recovery is far slower than most people expect. The rule of thumb around here which you will read is one month of recovery for every one week of radiation. (ie 6 weeks rad= 6 months recovery) 2)Some on this board have had success using Guifiasen (an over the counter cold drug) used to thin the mucous. 3)Also vaporizers are "supposed" to help and plenty of hydration is essential. 4)If it is really horrible they can even use a suction machine (from a medical supply store-ordered by dr) to remove the stuff.

Has your family member had a swallow test since they had their treatment? That can be very telling if the muscles in the throat are working well. That should be the first thing they can do to rule out a problem. My Mom just had hers done and the dr said she has 100% of her swallowing ability. (she also has not eaten by mouth since july) So we were able to tell that my Moms swallowing problem is related to the raw throat and mouth from the radiation. She also has not taste buds and her tongue is very swollen. These are all things that should pass in time. So these are also things that could be interering with your family member's ability to swallow.

hang in there......they should see some advancements in recovery soon!
Tami