UChicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center

Rehabilitation is an important aspect of the head and neck care plan because patients may find their speech, swallowing or other functions become more difficult during and after treatment.

At UChicago Medicine, patients work with speech pathologists, therapists, dietitians and other experts to improve their chances of making a full recovery.

Nutrition

As a result of both the cancer and the treatment, patients may experience difficulty maintaining their usual diet. There is growing evidence that good nutrition helps patients recover from chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

If safe, it is best for patients to continue to eat by mouth during treatment. If a feeding tube is required, it’s still good to continue to eat some things orally, if possible.

The dietitians on the cancer team know that during treatment, patients may find that food tastes different, appetite may decreased and it may take a long time to eat certain foods. Patients may be unsure about what they should eat and might feel anxious about swallowing. Our dietitians can answer questions and recommend types of foods and ways to prepare food. They strive to help patients:

  • Maintain optimal body weight
  • Improve nutritional intake during and after hospitalization
  • Gain control and better cope with treatment
  • Resume normal activities more quickly after treatment is complete

Swallowing

Cancer of the head and neck can cause difficulty swallowing. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy may also cause swallowing problems.

At UChicago Medicine, our specially trained speech pathologists work one-on-one with head and neck cancer patients to create customized plans for maintaining optimal swallowing function during and after treatment. Therapies include mouth, neck and swallowing exercises to improve muscle coordination. Some patients may require enteral tube feeding to ensure proper nutritional support. Our goal is to help you resume the most natural diet in the safest way.

Speech Therapy

Head and neck cancer treatment often affects speech. Our speech pathologists work with patients to address speech problems during and after treatment. Our specialists provide detailed exercises to help patients communicate effectively. Speech therapy may continue after cancer treatments have concluded.

Coordinated Care with Dental Professionals

Treatment for head and neck cancer affects the mouth, salivary glands and teeth. It's critical for patients to maintain proper dental care before, during and after treatment. Dental problems should be addressed as early as possible — often before radiation treatment — to ensure that dental and gum problems do not lead to infection, jaw damage or other health problems. Our team will work with you and your dentist to ensure proper dental care. If your dentist is not experienced in caring for patients with head and neck cancer, we can recommend dental professionals to meet your needs.

Request an Appointment

We are currently experiencing a high volume of inquiries, leading to delayed response times. For faster assistance, please call 1-855-702-8222 to schedule your appointment.

If you have symptoms of an urgent nature, please call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately.

For Referring Physicians

To refer a patient for head and neck cancer care, please call UCM Physician Connect at 1-800-824-2282

 

By submitting this form you acknowledge the risk of sending this information by email and agree not to hold the University of Chicago or University of Chicago Medical Center liable for any damages you may incur as a result of the transfer or use of this information. The use or transmittal of this form does not create a physician-contact relationship. More information regarding the confidentiality of this request can be found in our Privacy Policy.

* Indicates required field

By submitting this form you acknowledge the risk of sending this information by email and agree not to hold the University of Chicago or University of Chicago Medical Center liable for any damages you may incur as a result of the transfer or use of this information. The use or transmittal of this form does not create a physician-contact relationship. More information regarding the confidentiality of this request can be found in our Privacy Policy.

After Cancer, Photographer Focuses on His Work and Family

For award-winning artist Sandro Miller, photographing UChicago Medicine patients is personal. Prior to shooting two advertising campaigns for the hospital, Sandro was treated by our oncologists for stage 4 throat cancer.
Surgeon Nishant Agrawal, MD, and medical oncologist, Everett Vokes, MD

Cancer Care Second Opinions

Request a second opinion from UChicago Medicine experts in head and neck cancer care.

researcher in cancer lab

Participate in a Clinical Trial

UChicago Medicine head & neck cancer experts are actively conducting clinical trials of new and promising treatments.

Supportive oncology team, including Chris Daugherty, MD

Helping You Cope With Cancer

Our Supportive Oncology program offers a range of services to support you and your family during your cancer treatment.