My husband and I just returned from an out-of-town family wedding, with another week of travel following the event. Before cancer, we traveled extensively, have visited all but two states, and many countries. Once we were able to travel again, 1 1/2 years post treatment, life seemed to be going back to somewhat normal again. We all have are our own markers for the relief of this return to life.

In the airport, on the way home, my husband told me that he had jaw pain for the past 5 days. This is a new symptom, same side as BOT tumor and tooth extraction in 10/13. He was discharged from oral surgeon a few months ago. He underwent HBOT prior and following extraction.

So, back home to medical calls....His oncology team, MO & RO, are very attentive or I would lose my mind. They first want dental check which I already set up. General dentist found nothing on exam or Panorex xray. The jaw pain continues, not severe, but not mild either. Slight swelling of cheek, no pain near extraction site, no bitting pain, no sx related to root canal problems, some decreased ability to open mouth, which is also a new problem.

Within the past 2 months he has had NEG head CT, due to neurological symptoms, and clear routine ENT exam with scope. Will see oral surgeon and MO on Wed.

I find it hard to be believe that this could be something simple or benign. Can trismus start this suddenly, 6 yrs. post tx, with no underlining reason? TMJ or over stretching muscles have been mentioned. It doesn't sound right to me....

Christine - I have been practicing your good advice of allowing 5 minutes for the dark thoughts, when the outcome is still unknown, and then "changing the channel". It has helped to some extent. I am also keeping busy but I have that sick feeling building.

Im so sorry that this has happened. What a shame! Im sure it must have felt so good to travel again. Im hoping it was just the pressure from flying that is bothering your husband.

Keep changing that channel Glad you are trying. It really does help, sometimes more than others.

Best wishes!!!

It sounds like the new channel keeps showing reruns!

I had some swelling near the jaw that received the highest dose of rads, right in the field, too. The tightness that started around 5-6 years out has completely gone away and the jaw muscles "corded out" or turned to thin strands. After that I only have pain if I push hard directly on the jaw so I don't. The ROM of my mouth is back to pre-treatment levels.

It turned out benign in my case and I'm sure hoping for the same for your husband. I'm sorry to hear of the bumps in the road.

Thank you, Christine & Uptown. It does help to write it all down and hear back from people who understand the situation. I'll post a follow-up when I know more.

Lottie