Hello again,week 2 gone by 9 radiation and 2 chemo gone but last radiation I couldn't do it mask was too tight and I just couldn't swallow and felt like choking so dr gave me prescription for valium so monday gonna try it again 30 minutes after taking the medication hope someone here can give me some advice thanks

Paan,

I’m sorry to hear of your troubles! If the Valium doesn’t work, I can’t see the radiation oncologist waiting too long to do radiation. I’ve heard of them making a new mask or threatening to make one, when a patient looses to much weight, mainly in the face. Most of us went through a period where the mask was tight due to swelling, usually by the 2nd week, and I then lost weight from radiation, 40lbs, and was kindly warned not to loose anymore weight. Some had the eyelets on the mask cut out and or nose when it became tight, depending on where the cancer is. Possibly, as a last resort, a new mask can be made, but it’s possible in another week or so to start losing weight/swelling.

I hope the medication worked, if not, speak with the doctors.

Good luck

Hi;

With my mask they started to use plastic wrap; around my chin & down my throat. They also increased the size of the hole for the little grip to hold between your teeth. I also used a cream - must be +2 hours before treatment (Eucerin creaM).

The mask did feel tighter on some days - but a couple of times they had the wrong head support beneath me. They changed it and that made a huge difference.

Hope it helps,

Drew.

Thankyou Paul,took ativan they gave me 30 minutes before radiation and things went smooth no anxiety.

Great!