Head & Neck Radiotherapy
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.
Preparing for CT simulation
- Very important: a dental visit before starting, to treat any damaged teeth, because treatment affects mouth healing later.
- Early nutrition and swallowing assessment; a preventive feeding tube may be advised in some cases to maintain nutrition during treatment.
- A custom mesh mask is made to hold the head and neck precisely; it is perforated and you breathe through it freely.
Positioning & immobilization
- You lie on your back and the head and neck are held by the mesh mask in the same position every day.
- The mask ensures millimeter accuracy in a very sensitive area — it is the reason the treatment is safe.
- If you feel uneasy with the mask or enclosed spaces, tell us early; we have many ways to help.
How your treatment is planned
- Your doctor precisely outlines the tumor and nodes, and marks the salivary glands, spinal cord, and jaw to protect them.
- The plan (often an advanced technique such as IMRT) is designed to cover disease while reducing dry mouth and protecting nerves and swallowing.
- Treatment is usually daily over several weeks, sometimes with concurrent chemotherapy.
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.
Possible late side effects
- Chronic dry mouth in some patients (partially improves over time).
- Neck stiffness or limited mouth opening — stretching exercises help.
- Swallowing changes that may need rehabilitation with a specialist.
- Effects on teeth and gums, so lifelong dental care and follow-up matter.
- Underactive thyroid if it was in the treatment area — monitored with periodic blood tests.
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.
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.
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?
Important notice
This platform is for explanation and education only and does not replace medical advice. Your treating physician is the final source of truth for your condition and treatment plan. Do not make any treatment decision based on this content alone.