Dear Eva, I’m in week 3 of treatments for oral cancer. The mouth sores have really kicked in. Hard to eat anything I have to chew. Sticking to Ensure and other drinks, creamed soups, mashed potatoes and gravy, scrambled eggs. My doctor said I am losing too much weight, can’t lose anymore or the mask won’t fit properly. Any suggestions …
Tongue Exercises After Surgery for Oral Cancer
Dear Eva, My surgeon removed a chunk of my tongue and lymph nodes in March 2019 for oral cancer. I just finished radiation. My tongue is tight and I cannot eat well.The doctor says it will take 2-4 months after radiation, but I don’t feel any progress. Any advice? Regards, Asmaa Dear Asmaa, Radiation causes your tongue to feel stiff …
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Anxiety During Radiation Therapy to the Head and Neck
Dear Eva, 5 down and 25 to go! I’m having a lot of anticipatory anxiety before the treatment and am fine after it. Some of my appointments are at night because I haven’t gotten into an earlier slot soon enough. Waiting all day gets to me, mainly nauseous. Any tips for me ? I need to calm this stomach of …
Fought For Country: Not For His Own Fight Against Oral Cancer
Dear Eva, My father hasn’t eaten in 5 days and barely drinks water. He continues to refuse a feeding tube even though his weight dropped from 158 to 120. He doesn’t complain but his health is going downhill fast. Radiation for his oropharyngeal cancer ended almost 3 months ago! Our whole family is begging him to save himself. As a …
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Newly-Trained Dental Professionals Lack Attention to Oral Cancer: What Should I Say?
Dear Eva, I just got home from the dentist and am distressed about the lack of attention my dentist and his staff pay to oral cancer screenings. Is there is a way for you to help? I like my dentist and his hygienist does a great job, but it all stops there. It is noted in my chart that I want an oral cancer screening. …