The thought of wearing a radiation mask is absolutely terrifying to me. Not only from feeling claustrophobic, but also the fear of choking on my own saliva/secretions. I have persistent post-nasal drip and I can not go for longer than about 30 seconds without having to swallow - especially when lying down. Can you swallow with the mask on at all? Especially a mask that covers the throat area as well as the head? For those that have also had to wear the mouth-piece, how did you do without being able to swallow with that in during treatment or not gagging on it?

After 2 weeks I started having panick issues so dr prescribed medication I took 30 min prior going for radiation.My mask got tighter after 2 weeks ask for medication.

Thank you for your reply and for the advice. Could you swallow at all with the mask on if saliva was pooling up in your mouth and throat?

Hi Elizabeth,

I am so sorry to hear of the anxiety this treatment is creating for you. Also, for your cancer battle. I went through the mask and radiation treatment and the first 2-3 appointments were anxious for me. But, I could breath and swallow fine. I would close my eyes and hum a favorite upbeat song while concentrating on my breathing. My favorite was Indiana Jones theme song because Indiana Jones could get through anything! Or, maybe try a Beatles song such as Here Comes the Sun.

Tell your technicians and doctors about your anxiety as Paan suggests. They will help whether medication or simply patience and care.

Please update us as you go through this. Your experience will certainly help others.

Stay safe, keep the faith,
Nels

Thank you so much for your kind reply. It makes me feel so much better knowing that you can still swallow with the mask on, as that is one of my biggest fears facing this treatment.

In my case they made hole in mask and gave me a stick to put in my mouth I was able to get some air through my mouth and that helped me swallow.