Hi Folks! Hope all is well. I am six months post-treatment and life is pretty darn good: I am back to work full time, back at the gym, and have a lot more more energy. However, the lack of salivary function is troubling. I still can't easily eat anything that is not soupy or saucy. My oncologist says that what you get back for salivary function after radiation comes within the first year. After one year, what you get is all you will get. Since I am just past the half-way mark, I am worried. Does anyone have any advice for how one might encourage saliva? Herbal remedies? Acupuncture? Massage? I am open to anything. My doc says I just have to wait, but I would like to be a little more pro-active while I can. Appreciate any advice. -Michelle

Accupuncture has been shown to work from what I've read. Personally my mouth is a barren waste due to the facial paralysis not allowing my lips to close fully, ever. It comes with it's own bag of issues but mostly just inconvenient.

I workout hard and have to keep sugarfree gum and water close at all times especially if I'm trying to eat solid foods. It's doeable though, I don't think about it much anymore.

Good luck, keep your chin up!

Eric

I have heard from many members that the saliva gradually returns up til the 2 year mark. A few members have even reported seeing progress a little after that point. Dont give up it can get better. Ive heard promising things about accupuncture. Some members also take meds to help with saliva production. It didnt work for me, it made me sweat (something girls dont do). Good luck!!!

Thanks for the advice. I suppose I will get used to whatever my mouth ends up becoming with regards to saliva, but man I miss bread! -Michelle

Thanks, Christine, I think I will look into accupuncture. Glad to hear that others experience a return of saliva even after one year. Hope you are doing well. -Michelle