Patient handout: Head & Neck Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy Step by Step — Designed for radiation oncologists to use in clinic
A precise treatment that needs good dental and nutritional preparation, with strong team support throughout.
Why radiotherapy is used
- Radiotherapy is used for head and neck tumors (mouth, throat, voice box, salivary glands, and others), usually with curative intent.
- It may be given alone, with chemotherapy, or after surgery depending on the case.
- This area is delicate and contains structures important for swallowing, breathing, and speech, so planning is extremely precise.
The area being treated
- The primary tumor site in the head or neck.
- The lymph nodes in the neck that may contain disease.
- Planning protects the salivary glands, jaw, and spinal cord as much as possible.
How to prepare
- Complete any needed dental work before starting radiation.
- Keep your mouth clean with gentle rinses your team recommends, and avoid alcohol and tobacco completely.
- Eat soft, moist foods, drink plenty of fluids, and check your weight weekly.
- Use the recommended lip and skin moisturizer, and avoid spicy or acidic foods that irritate.
Early (acute) side effects
- Inflammation and ulceration of the mouth and throat lining, causing pain on swallowing.
- Dry mouth and changes in taste.
- Redness and peeling of the neck skin.
- Hoarse voice, thicker saliva, and building fatigue.
- Difficulty eating that may affect weight — nutrition monitoring is essential.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Will I need chemotherapy with the radiation?
- Will I need a feeding tube, and when?
- How do I maintain my weight and nutrition during treatment?
- What is the expected effect on my voice, swallowing, and taste?
- How do I care for my teeth and mouth long term?
When to contact us immediately
- Fever or signs of infection in the mouth or neck
- Being unable to swallow at all or to drink fluids (dehydration risk)
- Difficulty breathing or sudden neck swelling
- Bleeding from the mouth or throat
- Severe pain not controlled by your usual medication
If any of these appear, contact your treatment team immediately or go to the emergency department.