SWALLOWS_PATIENT_BOOKLET_MAIN_110918
You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles
YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.
Radiotherapy<br />
treatment FAQs<br />
We are often asked, ‘What are the side effects of<br />
radiotherapy?’ or ‘What happens when I have radiotherapy?’<br />
These are some common questions that people ask.<br />
• What side effects might I have with this<br />
radiotherapy treatment?<br />
• What kind of diet will help?<br />
• Can I see a dietician before I start<br />
treatment?<br />
• What if I don’t feel like eating?<br />
• Will the treatment have any effect on my<br />
teeth?<br />
• How can I care for my teeth?<br />
• What does dry mouth mean?<br />
• Will my dry mouth last?<br />
• Will the treatment affect my jaw now or in<br />
the future?<br />
Possible side effects<br />
of Radiotherapy<br />
• Soreness (or even open sores) in the<br />
mouth or throat<br />
• Dry mouth<br />
• Trouble swallowing<br />
• Changes in taste<br />
• Nausea<br />
• Earaches<br />
• Tooth decay<br />
• Swelling in the gums, throat or neck<br />
• Hair loss<br />
• Changes in skin texture<br />
• Jaw stiffness<br />
• What can I do to keep my mouth moist?<br />
• Will my hair fall out and in which areas?<br />
• Do you expect the hair to grow back<br />
after the treatment ends?<br />
• Will my voice change?<br />
• Will my taste buds be affected?<br />
• What is a planning meeting and what<br />
happens?<br />
• Can I see a mask?<br />
• Is it possible to talk to another patient<br />
who has been through the treatment?<br />
• What happens if I miss any treatment<br />
dates because I feel ill?<br />
It’s<br />
normal<br />
to ask<br />
questions!<br />
D<br />
D<br />
tr<br />
d<br />
q<br />
le<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
•<br />
K<br />
n<br />
cl<br />
h<br />
A<br />
46 24/7 Patient and Carer support line and text service: 07504 725 059 theswallows.org.uk<br />
Ava<br />
and<br />
Swallows_