Head and neck cancer radiotherapy treats cancers around the mouth, throat, voice box, nose, salivary glands, or neck lymph nodes. It may be given alone, after surgery, or with chemotherapy.
This area is sensitive because it affects eating, speaking, saliva, taste, and breathing. Good support during treatment matters.
01 · Understand the examination
About this scan
Common Indications for Head and Neck Cancer Radiotherapy
Your doctor may recommend it for:
- Throat or tonsil cancer.
- Voice box cancer.
- Mouth or tongue cancer.
- Nasal or sinus cancers.
- Salivary gland cancers.
- Cancer in neck lymph nodes.
- Treatment after surgery.
Do I need to stop taking medication?
Usually no. Keep taking your medicines unless your doctor says otherwise. Tell the team about pain medicines, blood thinners, diabetes medicine, and chemotherapy.
What happens when I arrive?
The radiographers position you in your mask. The mask holds your head and neck still so treatment can be accurate.
Is there any discomfort?
The radiation does not hurt. The mask can feel uncomfortable or claustrophobic, and side effects can make swallowing sore as treatment continues.
Are there risks?
Side effects may include mouth sores, thick saliva, dry mouth, taste changes, skin soreness, tiredness, hoarse voice, swallowing pain, and weight loss. Some effects can last after treatment.
02 · Plan ahead
Before your appointment
What exactly does this treatment target?
It treats the tumour area and sometimes nearby lymph nodes in the neck. The plan is shaped to protect the spinal cord, salivary glands, jaw, mouth, and swallowing structures as much as possible.
How should I prepare?
You may need dental review, nutrition review, a planning scan, and a custom mask. Tell the team if you already have swallowing problems, loose teeth, mouth sores, or weight loss.
How is the treatment performed?
The machine delivers radiation from outside the body while you lie still. The mask may feel tight, but you can breathe through it.
How long does treatment take?
Each session may take 10 to 30 minutes. The full course often runs over several weeks.
03 · Important exceptions
Safety and special situations
Can children have this treatment?
Yes, but only with specialist paediatric cancer planning. Children need extra support for positioning, nutrition, and long-term follow-up.
Can I have this treatment if I am pregnant?
04 · Know the red flags
When to seek urgent help
When should I seek urgent help?
Seek urgent help for new breathing difficulty, choking, significant bleeding, confusion, or inability to swallow fluids. Contact the team promptly for fever, uncontrolled pain, dehydration, rapid weight loss, or a feeding tube problem.
05 · Learn more
Sources and summary
Sources and further reading
Conclusion
Head and neck radiotherapy needs teamwork: cancer care, mouth care, nutrition, pain control, and speech or swallowing support. Tell the team early if eating, drinking, or breathing becomes harder.