After finishing chemo I've started radiation. I thought the chemo was bad.

NeckCancer

I didn't think I would make it through that, now I've started radiation. Yesterday, for the first time, I felt really hopeless. The food has no taste, I’m nauseous, and my throat is killing me. I also realize it’s going to get much worse before it gets better. Has anyone else felt this wave of depression?

Bengal

I cannot imagine what you are going through. A sore throat is the worst and this is after just one treatment? How many do you have to endure? Have they offered anything to sooth the pain? I do understand the wave of depression you describe. So sorry.

GregP_WN

I remember the throat pain from the radiation. It's been a long time since I had chemo so it's a distant memory, but the radiation I remember like yesterday. I was given two different solutions to use in my mouth. One was to swish and spit out while the other was to swish and swallow. Ask about those for help with the pain. As for getting down, it is easy to start feeling that way when things are getting rough. All I can suggest is to keep plugging forward, tell your doctors about how you're feeling and they can help. I hope you come around with it.

smlroger

My team tried to prepare me for the problems with radiation and they were right. Sores in mouth, sorethroat, skin burns and no taste all of which got worse as we progressed. Get with your team for help. My radiologist prescribed a "magic mouthwash" that helped some. A ill tasting, viscus liquid with lidocaine in it. Not cheap and insurance would not cover. I also found some some sugar free gum and some stick to gums "mints" that helped soothe the sores some. I was also thankful that I got a feeding tube before the start. Also check out the SPOHNC webiste for help, www.spohnc.org. Stay positive as you can. You are stronger than you think.

Bengal

You're a few days into it now. How are you doing? We're you able to find relief for your throat pain? Sure hope so.