The radiation treatment, that is. Or as they call it tomotherapy, based on the machine that is being used. It is not too bad, the mask is uncomfortable but I can deal with it. The actual rads last for 477s.

I am still going to work, have been given pure writing assignments for the moment, as opposed to usual lab experiments. Also have 2 PT appointments every week, so keeping busy. Hoping that the side effects kick in as late as possible.

Good luck and do get plenty of calories and water each and every day for at least the next 2 years.

So week one is over. So far everything is fine, maybe some minor throat scratching, but I am not sure if it is real or a product of my imagination. Also feeling tired, but I was feeling that even before it started, so not sure if it is a real side effect. I am starting gabapentin tonight.
I have also been seeing a cancer counselor. Results of some tests are that my stress and anxiety levels are through the roof and there is moderate depression as well. I guess that explains my inability to concentrate at work and feeling that my brain is foggy.
I was reading here about mouth rinsing with manuka honey, how does that exactly work, especially when already using salt/baking soda rinse? Are they used at different times? Is sugar from the honey a concern for the teeth, I always brush/rinse my teeth after any food, especially something that contains sugar?

I used the both the baking soda/salt and the organic raw Manuka honey. Sometimes I used the Manuka right after the baking soda rinse, sometimes just whenever. It's good if you get sores I'm your mouth. Cheryld recommended it to me, she used it faithfully. it worked for me, or at least I thought it did. Maybe you can PM her. Some things work for some people, and don't for others. I wa a bit neurotic and tried almost everything suggested. AND DR APPROVED, I didn't make a move without asking my RO. I brushed my teeth alot during the day. I was so concerned about sugar, but everyone said eat sugar!! Sugar = calories! Maybe cheryld will see this and give her two cents.

The measurable active ingredient in Manuka Honey is naturally occurring methylglyoxal, See this website here :
http://manukahealth.co.nz/news.cfm?article_id=136

I am neither a scientist nor medically qualified but I bought the highest UMF (22+) I could find and use that as a smear on my Fistula dressing. I have had positive and on going healing from this and although I cannot swallow have on occasions sucked the odd spoonful for added mouth relief. I give it a plus+. Some fistulas have healed completely and the general area is healed and healthy now.

Oh thanks mikejwoodnz, I forgot 22+. I actually used 16+ bec I was being cheap and saved a few bucks.

Hi there - for me manuka was awesome. Because it's antibacterial it actually fights cavities. Strangely enough. It's the bacteria in plaque that causes cavities. (Go figure) I used it after each meal. I would eat, brush my teeth and then use the manuka (1 teaspoon put in mouth - let melt -swish for 1-3 minutes (- it stings- but your mouth feels amazing after.) I would use it when I knew it would be a while before something else went in there then in between I would rinse frequently with the baking soda mixture or flat club soda. It is antibacterial, anti fungal and antibiotic.. Pretty awesome bees I must say. Hugs

There is peroxide in all honey and may explain how mouth sores heal. The methylglyoxal is an antibacterial and gives Manuka honey an additional antibiotic property. UMF is one rating scale that stands for Unique Manuka Factor and is supposed to signify the strength of the methylglyoxal in the Manuka honey. The classification may also be based on a newer scale called MGO which is the amount of methylglyoxal in mg per kg of honey.

Thank you very much everyone on the input on the Manuka honey. I am of to order some!

Hi Ambra:
I knew I'd find where you were currently posting sooner or later.

I'd never heard of this manuka honey stuff, but it looks like a winner, so will have to try some. My dentist gave me a bunch of old formula Biotene dry mouth rinse and gel, so will probably use them in concert for max effect.

Sorry to hear about all the stress and strain this battle with C and the treatments are putting on you. Like you, I don't have the energy levels I would like, but that's because the sore throat and mouth has never gotten any better.

I hope you have made a list of pleasant things to do to escape when the walls start closing in. Just going outside for a walk can often work wonders. Even though I don't really have the energy to play bridge well, and I'm sure the fatigue is causing me to play at less than par, I still look forward to every opportunity to play. I can always take a big nap after coming home.

Hang in there Ambra, if memory serves you're approaching 1/3 through with your rads already.

You know if you need me, I'm right here.

Tony