Hi, Ive read your previous posts about your mother. She has gone thru this before but never went thru radiation. Its not going to be easy for either of you. But it can be done, just keep a positive attitude.

As Tammy said, write down what the doctor says so you can look back on the notes. It can be pretty overwhelming with so much info being given during the first few appointments. A peg tube and port would make things easier for your mom. If that isnt brought up ask about it.

If the doc doesnt talk about prescriptions, ask for something called magic mouthwash and some cream for her skin. I used beta-val cream but there are many others out there. Talk to the doc about pain meds, many of us have had the fentanyl patch. There is also a wide variety of liquid ones out there to use if she has a peg tube. Ask about jaw exercises she should start doing now.

A big thing to do now is for her to eat like crazy. It wont matter if she gains weight cuz she will most likely lose it if not more while going thru treatments. There could come a time during treatments that she wont be able to eat properly, so anything she likes she might want to eat now. Even after treatment ends it could be a while before she is able to taste things like before her treatments started.

You will want to know how many rounds of radiation and chemo your mom is getting. Dental work is also very important. Does she still have her teeth or dentures? You will need to take her to the dentist for flouride trays if she still has her teeth. Any dental work that needs to be done should be done now before treatment starts.

For the chemo doc. Ask what type of chemo, the dosage and frequency. Makes sure the doc gives you prescriptions for anti-nasuea meds up front so your mom is prepared. Thats very important to take them even if she thinks she doesnt need them. Once you get behind on that and she is nasueous its really hard to get ahead of it.

Please try to add to your signature some info so its easier for others to respond to your questions.