Hi, I’m a 35yo female , was diagnosed with stage 3 tongue cancer in sept. Had the tumor on my tongue removed 3 weeks ago as well as 8 lymph nodes.

I am starting radiation on my tongue in a couple weeks and wondering what to expect? I’ve read some about dry mouth, difficulty swallowing, mouth sores, fatigue. Anyone have radiation on their tongue that can give me a little insight ??

Thank you!

I believe many people here will tell you that everyone's reaction is different to radiation. But, for me, it was a very rough experience.

I had 30 rounds and the first 15 were rather uneventful, but the effects are cumulative, so that means it gets worse as you progress through your treatment. By the end of it I had lost my appetite, lost my taste, lost a lot of weight, lost my energy, lost hair on the back of my head where the radiation beam travelled (a radiation haircut!), and gained constipation from the pain meds. It took another month or so to regain energy and appetite, and a little longer to regain taste. Yes, there are mouth sores, trouble swallowing, and all sorts other issues that I may have forgotten about.

BUT, I made it through and would do it again just to have the peace of mind that I did everything possible to prevent recurrence. I've been cancer-free for over 8 years.

You are younger and your situation may not be as bad as mine was, but don't hesitate to go through it and see it to the end. You'll be glad you did after it's all over.