People who’ve had head and neck cancer often face challenges with talking, eating or swallowing. These challenges can arise due to the cancer itself or as a result of treatments such as surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Thankfully, there is help available to significantly improve outcomes.
Our Approach to Recovery and Survivorship for Head and Neck Cancer
“Our main goal is to focus on survivorship – working with you to return to a full life after you’ve defeated cancer,” says Stephen Buechel-Rieger, Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and Voice and Swallow Specialist at St. Elizabeth Healthcare. As the only healthcare system in Northern Kentucky that offers SLP services for head and neck cancer patients, our therapists work on swallowing techniques as soon as possible with the goals of:
- Determining what is not working after cancer treatment is completed.
- Helping patients return to their full potential.
- Preserving swallow function.
When to Begin Speech Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Early intervention is incredibly important, says Buechel-Rieger. “Patients should see their speech and swallow specialist as soon as possible following their diagnosis.” Head and neck cancer patients often experience swallowing, voice and speech problems at the same time. “The connection between the voice box, throat, mouth, tongue and lips is intricate and interrelated,” explains Buechel-Rieger.
Studies show that those who participate in preventive “prehab” swallow therapy are:
- Less likely to need a feeding tube.
- More likely to preserve their swallow function during their cancer treatment.
- More likely to return to near normal eating following completion of treatment.
Even if you have no difficulty swallowing before your treatment starts, Buechel-Rieger recommends that you:
- Meet with your SLP.
- Complete your swallowing exercises.
- Be open to trying new things.
- Never be afraid to ask for help.
What to Expect with Speech Pathology Swallow Therapy for Head and Neck Cancer
Therapy sessions range from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on individual goals. If you’ve undergone a total laryngectomy (removal of the entire voice box), you can benefit from seeing a SLP for the rest of your life. You’ll likely see a SLP every three to six months to have your voice prosthesis replaced and checked.
For people with head and neck cancer, their speech therapy recommendations vary. St. Elizabeth SLPs create custom care plans for each patient by understanding how their specific symptoms affect their daily lives and abilities. The goal is to address the patient’s needs quickly and effectively.
Often, a person will see an SLP:
- Shortly after their cancer diagnosis and before starting treatment for an evaluation.
- A few times during active treatment.
- Regularly after treatment until they’ve met their goals.
How to Start Therapy Services Right Here
To begin your journey toward improved communication and swallowing, it’s important to first get a referral. Discuss your needs and goals with your primary care provider, oncologist, or ear, nose and throat physician, who can then make a specialized speech therapy referral.
If you’re interested in learning more about speech, language and swallowing services, find a speech-language pathology location near you here.
