help with laryngectomy
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help with laryngectomy
| Wed, 06-18-2008 - 9:23am |
Hi, my Dad recently underwent a laryngectomy, he is having radiotherapy at the moment. He is beginning to feel very sore and having difficulty swallowing. How long after the radiotherapy will he start to feel better. Also, he began having terrible panic attacks after being told he had throat cancer, he is still having them, do they go away? If not, any ideas how I can help him overcome them. Thanks for any advice, Sue xx

Hi Sue and welcome to the board.
I'm always interested in hearing the differences from country to country.
Hi Susana,
I only knew one person that underwent that procedure, but he didn't do very well after the surgery. He passed away just three months after the surgery. That doesn't need to be your dad's fate. If he is going through the radiations, that is a though process, and I completely understand if he is having the panic attacks.
You can help him by not trying to convince him that his fears are not real. Acknowledge his fears because for him, what he fears is completely real. Show him your support and your love. Try to gain his trust, and try to help him open up with you. You may advise him that he can cope with his panic by going to a therapy.
God bless you.
Welcome to the board.
Hi Maggie, thank your for your very kind and very helpful response.