A 21-year-old member asked:
What rehabilitation or support options are available for patients with head and neck cancers?
3 doctor answers • 12 doctors weighed in
Dr. Ritesh Rathoreanswered
Hematology and Oncology 31 years experience
Many: Patient centered websites- head neck cancer alliance (headandneck.Org) or sponc (spohnc.Org) can give info on local support groups, treatments & trials. Rehab options include reconstruction (speech devices, plastic surgery); medications for dry mouth, appetite stimulation, chronic pain; exercises for swallowing & lymphedema; nutrition and psychosocial services are available at doctors offfices.
6.2k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
Pathology, Anatomic and Clinical 50 years experience
Head & Neck Cancer: You should consult with your doctors about support groups in your local area; many are avlaibale online. The answer also depends on the type of cancer (e.G, salivary glands, thyroid, oral cancers, etc), and the extent of surgery and residual deficits that need to be addressed( e.g., speech with laryngeal cancers, facial reconstruction, etc). Start with http://www.Spohnc.Org/.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Chad Levittanswered
Radiation Oncology 23 years experience
Many: It is important to seek out complementary and support services before, during, and after your treatment for head and neck cancer. Depending upon the extent of surgery, radiation, and maybe chemotherapy your needs could vary quite a bit. Speech and swallowing evals and management early are crucial. Nutritional eval. Support groups for sure. Dry mouth management with dental eval. Acupuncture.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Mar 23, 2015
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