cancer of the voice box?

Question

my dad has just been diagnosed with cancer of the voice box,he has also been having breathing problems in the last few weeks,he is to begin having radiotherapy on his throat straight away,i was just wondering if anyone has any useful information on this,if anyone has been throu the same thing? im worried..

Answer 1

I am a radiation therapist, so I treat patients with laryngeal cancer regularly. Every patient is different and treatment regimens differ according to the doctor's preference as well as other factors such as stage and grade of the cancer. However, there are some general guidelines I can give you so you and your dad know what to expect. Most of the effects your dad may see and feel will be radiation side effects such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, dry mouth, voice loss, and redness of the skin. It is possible that your father will need to have a peg tube placed into his stomach in case he is unable to swallow food. This tube is used to introduce liquid nutrition into the body so that he can stay strong and healthy. Radiation is a very effective way to kill cancer cells, but it cannot differentiate between cancer cells and healthy tissue. Unfortunately, some healthy tissue is always damaged by radiation. The good news is that most healthy cells have enough Oxygen in them to be able to repair themselves while cancer cells have less Oxygen and are more likely to be killed. Also, it is important to remember that most symptoms can be controlled through diet and medications, and that any discomfort should be discussed with the therapists or doctor ASAP. On a personal level, there is nothing I can say to reduce your fears. Cancer is always a very scary disease. However, if you can involve yourself in your dad's treatment and keep yourself educated each step can become a little less frightening. I wish you, your dad, and your family the best of luck as you embark on this journey.

Answer 2

What exactly is it you wish to know? Cancer of the larynx (laryngeal cancer) is treatable and excision of the larynx and vocal cords isn't always necessary. Prognosis depends on the stage and grade of the tumor. Your dad can keep you in the loop by giving written permission to allow you access to his medical information. That way you can ask questions directly to his medical oncologist or ENT, whichever is handling his case. If your mother is living and involved, she might be your best source of information at this time.