Nutrition
Some people who
have had treatment for cancer of the larynx may lose their interest in
food. Soreness and changes in smell and
taste may make eating difficult. Yet
good nutrition is important. Eating
well means getting enough calories and protein to prevent weight loss, regain
strength, and rebuild healthy tissues.
If
eating is difficult because your mouth is dry from radiation therapy, you may
want to try soft, bland foods moistened with sauces or gravies. Thick soups, puddings, and milkshakes often
are easier to swallow. The nurse and
the dietitian will help you choose the right foods.
After surgery or radiation therapy,
some people need feeding tubes placed into the abdomen. Most people slowly return to a regular
diet. Learning to swallow again may
take some practice with the help of a nurse or speech pathologist. Some people find liquids easier to swallow;
others do better with solid foods. You
will find what works best for you.
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