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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Scratchy And Burning Throat Long After Radiation Therapy?

I had surgery and radiation 5 years ago for tonsillar cancer. Have been doing very well, but recently the burning tongue and scratchy throat that I had during and for a time after the radiation have been been bothering me more than they had for a long time....do you think these are worrisome symptoms, or am I just focusing on them with a degree of paranoia and worry about the possibility of a return of the cancer?
posted on Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Twitter Sun, 2 Aug 2020 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 22 May 2014 Last reviewed on
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Pediatrician,  's  Response
Hi,

It is common to have some parasthesias or burning sensation at radiation sites. This is probably from minor damages happened to cells and nerves there. This need not be taken as a sign of returning cancer. Recurrent cancer is unlikely after 5 years of initial therapy, and they rather present with local swelling or enlarged lymph nodes.

If the burning is troublesome, kindly discuss with your doctor; there are drugs like Gabapentin that might offer some help. Avoid too hot or too cold food/drinks. Frequent sips of cool drinks might help. Use sugar free candies or chewing gums if there is dry mouth.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Muhammed Aslam T. K., Pediatrician
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What Causes Scratchy And Burning Throat Long After Radiation Therapy?

Hi, It is common to have some parasthesias or burning sensation at radiation sites. This is probably from minor damages happened to cells and nerves there. This need not be taken as a sign of returning cancer. Recurrent cancer is unlikely after 5 years of initial therapy, and they rather present with local swelling or enlarged lymph nodes. If the burning is troublesome, kindly discuss with your doctor; there are drugs like Gabapentin that might offer some help. Avoid too hot or too cold food/drinks. Frequent sips of cool drinks might help. Use sugar free candies or chewing gums if there is dry mouth. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Muhammed Aslam T. K., Pediatrician