Head & neck cancer
5 articles shown
Tube Feeding in Head and Neck Cancer — How to Get Nutrition Through a Tube
When eating by mouth becomes difficult during head and neck cancer treatment, this calmly sums up what you actually need to manage at home: the role and types of feeding tubes (nasogastric and gastrostomy), choosing formula and setting infusion rate and posture, dealing with tube blockage and skin care, and keeping up mouth care.
Eating and Reconstruction After Oral Cancer Surgery — Finding the Joy of Food Again
After oral cancer surgery, eating recovers step by step from thin liquids to a regular diet, while swallowing rehabilitation and free-flap and jawbone reconstruction rebuild the foundation for chewing and swallowing. Dry mouth and taste changes are managed with hydration, moisture, and nutrient density, and a personalized diet and rehab plan should be set together with your treatment team.
The Time I Kept My Nutrition Up Through a Gastrostomy Tube (PEG)
When head and neck cancer treatment makes eating by mouth difficult, nutrition can be delivered through a small tube placed into the stomach (a gastrostomy tube, or PEG). This is a practical guide: starting slowly and building up the volume, posture and pace during feeding, keeping the tube and surrounding skin clean, and concrete tips to reduce clogging and leakage.
When Food Tastes Different: Learning to Enjoy Eating Again After Head and Neck Cancer Treatment
Changes in taste after head and neck cancer treatment are common. Lean on texture and temperature instead of flavor, switch to plastic or wooden utensils for a metallic taste, try mild-tasting proteins, and use a touch of sourness to wake up your appetite. The key is to eat "often" rather than "a lot" so you hold onto your weight. Taste usually returns with time, so don't blame yourself: eat what you can. But if you have trouble swallowing or are losing weight quickly, see your care team or a dietitian.
When Radiation Makes Swallowing Hard: Protecting Your Meals and Nutrition
A practical eating guide for when swallowing becomes difficult during head and neck radiation therapy: adjusting food texture, temperature, and seasoning, and packing protein and calories into small portions to hold your weight. If you go too long unable to eat, don't tough it out alone-talk to your care team about ways to supplement your nutrition.