topic Re: Oral cancer in New? Start here!

Oral cancer

Missy413 — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 23:57:58 GMT

I have had a spot on my tongue for a few months. About a week ago it started to hurt, bad. I went to the ER, the ER Dr told me it was cancer. A CT of my neck showed a enlarged lymph node. Today I saw a ENT that did a tongue biopsy. He said he was sure it was cancer and I will be fine. Anyway, I'm grasping here. I have no pain since the biopsy and the lump in my next hasn't been felt by me since last week.

He said I will need chemo and radiation because if they do surgery, I will lose half my tongue!

I can't even bring myself to tell anyone this. My husband knows, that's it!

Re: Oral cancer

Budgie — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 03:00:47 GMT

Hi Missy413,

That's certainly a daunting prospect - to have your tongue, or even part of it, removed. @Tassiedevil may be able to give you some advice regarding treatments etc. Are you in Australia or the US, as treatments may differ though?
I hope things go well for you.

Budgie

Re: Oral cancer

Tassiedevil — Sun, 01 Mar 2020 06:00:22 GMT

Sorry to hear about your upcoming procedure Missy413. I have ACC in the form of saliva gland cancer that infiltrated part of my tongue so my surgeon had to remove the affected portion, it was also present in the floor of my mouth and two saliva glands. You are no doubt talking to an Oncologist- Chemo team as well as your ENT and Plastic surgeons, if not, why not. Don't be afraid to ask stupid questions, they are only stupid when you find out you should have asked at the time, if you don't know what they are talking about say so, don't take'' I DONT KNOW FOR AN ANSWER'' its not their life in the balance. But in the meantime, how are you dealing with the news that will change your life? I was not a happy camper for a while, but if you ask my wife I never was but that's another topic, and threw all the toys out of the pram. I think before I act now. Maybe you won't have a bad situation after the procedure so we shouldn't put the cart before the horse just yet. I wish you well Missy413 Craig

Re: Oral cancer

altonbrook — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 11:28:02 GMT

That sounds incredibly overwhelming, and it’s completely understandable to feel unsure about sharing this news beyond your husband. While cancer treatment paths can feel daunting, having a strong support team, including your ENT, oncologist, and chemo team, makes a real difference. Some patients in Sydney have found that consulting a trusted dental clinic like St Leonards Green Dental can also be valuable, especially for guidance on oral health before and during treatment. They offer insights into maintaining oral hygiene, managing discomfort, and reducing complications during chemo and radiation. You can learn more about how they support patients through complex oral health needs.

Focusing on small steps, keeping up with appointments, asking questions, and taking care of yourself day by day, can make the process feel more manageable. Even simple routines like gentle mouth care or talking through concerns with your medical team can help maintain some control during this challenging time.

Re: Oral cancer

Felicity_CCNSW — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 01:09:03 GMT

Hi @altonbrook

Thank you for your considered response and offering of support to those navigating oral cancer.

How are you going navigating your cancer at the moment?

Take care,

Felicity