The good news was that I did get microsuction so am completely clear of pesky ear wax

apparent to me - even from partial hearing loss

I'm starting to think the beard might be back soon

Growth now much more even although right-hand side still lagging a bit ... that's the side that got heavier radiotherapy

Neck still smooth though (and that suits me just fine)

He has referred my to Audiology to check on tinnitus and pain from ears. Hearing loss (temporary and permanent) is a known side-effect of radiotherapy to throat

He thinks mid-October for CT Scan to see if treatment zapped the cancer

I do still think that the tube itself was causing at least some of my swallowing difficulties. In particular, where mucositis on the soft palate could have been chaffing against the tube itself

The next few days should tell me a lot more

"Yes. You could ask your GP or Practice Nurse"

"Okay, thank you"

Fact is that I pulled it out myself before she got her phone back in her pocket !! (Ta for advice Brenda)

Feeling very happy with life last night and also thinking that I was right about something else ...

Yes folks, the naso-gastric feeding tube is OUT after nearly 3 months !!!!

The dietician approved its removal after I had maintained weight with 100% oral feeding for a week ...

"We can take it out on your next appt in Aberdeen"

"That's 2 weeks away. Can I arrange to have it removed locally?"

Decided I should see the Doc

He prescribed steroids to reduce swelling at back of throat & took a swab of my tongue to see if any nasties had taken up residence there

Sadly no. I wish it did as I do loads of cooking almost every day

I've had my tube feeding rations cut to 500ml daily

Should boost my appetite for eating orally

Only real setback in week 12 happened in Tesco. Suddenly felt sick and had to head rapidly for customer loos where I was badly sick for maybe 10mins..

Still felt awful and had to ask a supervisor to checkout my shopping. She was very helpful and concerned. Top marks.

An update ... she is doing extremely well. She didn’t need her final Chemo so she has “rang the bell” - end of treatment. The consultants are very pleased with her. MRI scan to give all clear due beginning of Aug.
So delighted with this great news

Persistent side effects:
Dry mouth, taste changes, and potential voice changes can last for weeks, months, or even years

Initial healing (2-6 weeks):
The mouth and throat begin to heal from the sores and skin reactions caused by radiation.

Short-term side effects (4-8 weeks):
Pain and soreness from the treatment may worsen initially before gradually improving.

Treatment intensity: The specific radiation dose and whether chemotherapy was also administered play a role.
Treatment area: The precise location of the radiation within the head and neck region can affect recovery.

Stages of Recovery:

However, some side effects like dry mouth, taste changes, and potential voice alterations can persist for months or even years.
Factors Influencing Recovery:

Individual health: Overall health and pre-existing conditions can impact recovery time.