CureRays
Head & Neck Cancer Guide
CONTENTS
1. What is head and neck cancer?
​Head and neck cancer refers to a group of cancers that originate in the head and neck region of the body. This area includes various structures, such as the oral cavity (mouth), throat (pharynx), voice box (larynx), salivary glands, nasal cavity, and the sinuses. These cancers can occur in different parts of the head and neck, leading to various types of head and neck cancer.
The most common types of head and neck cancers include:
-
Oral cancer: This cancer can develop in the lips, tongue, gums, inside of the cheeks, roof of the mouth, and the floor of the mouth.
-
Pharyngeal cancer: Pharyngeal cancer affects the throat, which is divided into three parts: the nasopharynx (upper part), oropharynx (middle part), and hypopharynx (lower part).
-
Laryngeal cancer: Laryngeal cancer occurs in the voice box (larynx), which is responsible for producing sound and controlling the passage of air to the lungs.
-
Salivary gland cancer: These cancers start in the salivary glands, which produce saliva to aid in digestion and keep the mouth moist.
-
Nasal and sinus cancer: These cancers affect the nasal cavity (the space inside the nose) and the sinuses (air-filled cavities in the bones around the nose).
2. What side effects can I expect?​
​
​
​
​
​
​
3. What medicine might I need? (coming soon)
4. What is the supporting evidence?
Nutrition during head and neck radiation
Xerostomia
Radiation therapy is a common treatment option for head and neck cancer. The side effects of radiation therapy for head and neck cancer can vary depending on the location and extent of the radiation treatment. The following is a week-by-week summary of anticipated side effects:
​
Week 1-2:
During the first week or two of radiation therapy, patients may experience some fatigue, nausea, and skin irritation in the treated area. These side effects are generally mild.
​
Week 3-4:
By the third or fourth week of radiation therapy, patients may experience more severe fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and dry mouth. Some patients may also develop sores in their mouth or throat, which can make it difficult to eat and drink.
​
Week 5-6:
During the fifth and sixth weeks of radiation therapy, the side effects may become even more severe. Patients may experience increased fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and dry mouth. Some patients may also experience changes in their taste and a loss of appetite.
​
Week 7-8:
In the final weeks of radiation therapy, patients may continue to experience fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and dry mouth. Some patients may also experience skin changes in the treated area, including redness, peeling, and itching.
​
After treatment: In the weeks and months following radiation therapy, patients may experience ongoing side effects, such as ongoing fatigue, dry mouth, and difficulty swallowing. These side effects can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes, such as a modified diet.
Cancer Support Groups
Metastatic and Advanced Cancer Support Group
Meeting via Zoom
4th Friday of the Month 10:00 AM-11:00 AM
Email: Eva.Lukas@commonspirit.org for details
​
Caregiver Support Group
Meeting via Zoom
3rd Friday of the Month 11:00 AM-12:00 AM
Email: Eva.Lukas@commonspirit.org for details
​
Caregiver Support Group
Meeting via Zoom
3rd Friday of the month
11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Email: Eva.Lukas@commonspirit.org for details
​
Stress Reduction and Mindfulness Series
Registration Link
ONCOLOGY CARE THERAPIST
Eva Lukas, MA, LMFT
916-537-5262
Appointments available upon request
Spiritual Counseling
Rev. Karen Lawler
916-450-2665
Appointments available upon request
​​​
Oncology Dietician
Susan Liebert, MS, RD, CSO, CDE
916-962-8868
Appointments available upon request
​
Oncology Nurse Navigators
1-833-DHCINAV / 916-962-8892
​
Transition to Wellness
Via ZOOM
To view dates or to register:
Questions about nutrition, activity or mental health in survivorship?
Meeting via Zoom
Email: tami.krebs@commonspirit.org for details