Understanding Treatment

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with head and neck cancer, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. Your medical team will create a personalised treatment plan based on your diagnosis, stage, and the latest research. Remember, don’t hesitate to ask questions and gather information to understand the benefits, risks, and side effects involved. 

There are three main types of treatment used for head and neck cancer: surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. These are sometimes used alone, but often in combination. 

 Surgery 

For early-stage head and neck cancers, surgery may be the only treatment and can often be curative. Sometimes, it’s followed by radiation to ensure all cancer cells are gone. The aim is to remove the tumour while preserving your appearance and functions like eating and speaking. Your surgeon will explain what to expect, and while some recovery and rehabilitation may be needed, your team will do everything they can to minimise impact. 

 Radiation Therapy 

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells by damaging their DNA. For early-stage cancers, it can often be a standalone treatment. Sometimes, it’s used after surgery or with chemotherapy for more advanced cases. Your team will carefully plan the treatment, using imaging scans to target the tumour precisely while protecting healthy tissue. 

 Like any treatment, radiation can cause side effects. These might include: 

• Soreness and inflammation in the mouth lining (called mucositis) which can be painful and make eating or swallowing difficult 

• Changes in taste buds 

• Dry mouth (xerostomia) 

• Hoarseness or voice changes 

• Difficulty opening your mouth (trismus) 

• Tooth decay, due to decreased saliva 

• Fatigue affecting up to 80% of patients 

• Breathing difficulties in some cases 

 Chemoradiation Therapy 

Sometimes, chemotherapy is used alongside radiation either after surgery or as the primary treatment if the cancer has advanced. It’s a potent combination but comes with its own set of side effects:  

• Mouth inflammation (mucositis), interfering with eating and swallowing 

• Dry mouth 

• Fatigue 

• Nausea and vomiting 

 Managing Your Treatment and Side Effects 

Facing treatment can be daunting but being prepared helps. Before starting, chat with your healthcare team about how best to manage potential side effects and symptoms. It’s a good idea to keep a dedicated binder or notebook with: 

• A list of common side effects (like tiredness or soreness) 

• A rating system for how severe each symptom is (from mild to severe) 

• Instructions provided by your medical team on how to handle or report side effects 

For example, if receiving chemoradiation, consider creating a worksheet to track side effects and management strategies: