I lost my voice during my 5th week of tx, it lasted for 3 to 4 weeks. I was only able to whisper--it was like something out of the Godfather trilogy. My swallowing was also affected, the only thing I was able to do was KEEP SWALLOWING...and it does help to SWALLOW TWICE(swallow then swallow again before putting anything in your mouth) with everything--food and water. I did not have a PEG so I had no choice but to swallow. He has to push himself to swallow.

Remember everyone is different and let your RO/MO & nursing team know every little detail of what's happening.

7-16-08 age 37@Dx, T3N0M0 SCC 4.778cm tumor, left side of oral tongue, non smoker, casual drinker, I am the 4th in my family to have H&N cancer
8-13-08 left neck dissection and 40% of tongue removed, submandibular salivary gland & 14 nodes clean, no chemo, IMRTx35
11-4-08 Recovering & feeling better