Head and Neck Cancer Treatment and Support

A team of health care providers that includes medical oncologists, head and neck surgeons, radiation oncologists, neuroradiologists, plastic surgeons, nurses, speech pathologists, audiologists, nutritionists, psychologists and social workers may help treat your head and neck cancer.

How is head and neck cancer treated?

The main treatments for head and neck cancer are:

• Radiation therapy: These high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. Radiation therapy can be given either from a machine outside the body or through implants placed near the cancer. Radiation treatments are painless, but after them you may notice side effects. These may be red or sore skin, changes in your sense of taste, dry mouth or hair loss.  However, the use of modern techniques including volumetric arc therapy (VMAT/IMRT) to treat with pinpoint accuracy can limit these side effects. You might only have radiation treatment, or you may have it along with other treatments like surgery and chemotherapy.   
• Surgery: The extent of surgery depends on the cancer's stage and location. Some surgeries can be done with lasers or robotic methods. Others need open techniques. Side effects of surgery may include loss of your voice (temporary or permanent) or trouble speaking, hearing loss, problems chewing or swallowing or stiffness, swelling or disfigurement. In some cases, you may have bleeding, infection and other problems. A feeding tube may be needed after surgery until you heal. Reconstructive surgery may also be needed to restore function and appearance after the cancer is removed. 
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy can be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the cancer, after surgery (adjuvant) to reduce the risk of cancer coming back or in combination with radiation therapy. It’s most often used for more advanced cancers and doesn’t work for all types of head and neck cancers. Chemotherapy may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue and mouth sores.
• Targeted therapy: These medicines target specific molecules that help cancer cells live and grow. They aren’t an option for all head and neck cancers, but they may work for some people. Examples include cetuximab (Erbitux) and larotrectinib (Vitrakvi). Side effects of targeted therapy may be infections, rash, dizziness, itching, dry mouth or upset stomach.
• Immunotherapy: These treatments help your immune system fight cancer cells. Immunotherapy is a developing area for head and neck cancer. There are many different types of immunotherapy. Side effects of immunotherapy may be fatigue, rash, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.

Your cancer care team will recommend the best treatment options for you, based on your type of cancer, its stage and location, your overall health, your medical history, your age and your preferences. They will decide what combination of surgery, systemic therapy (chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy) and radiation therapy is right for you.   

Side effects of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy can often be reduced and managed with medicines and other treatments.

Be sure to ask questions about your cancer and treatment options, so you understand the benefits and risks and can make informed decisions about your treatment. It’s also a good idea to ask your provider if you qualify for any clinical trials.

Resources and support for head and neck cancer patients

Your care team understands that being diagnosed with head and neck cancer is stressful for you and your loved ones. Making sure you are comfortable and emotionally supported is vital. Be open with your providers about your feelings, preferences and concerns so they can connect you with the support you need.

Supportive care may include: 

• Pain management: Medicines and other techniques can help manage pain caused by cancer or its treatment. 
• Nutrition support: Dietitians can help you find ways to get the nutrition you need during treatment.  Getting the right nutrients will help you heal and recover.
• Speech therapy: A speech therapist can help you improve communication if treatment affects your speech. 
• Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you regain strength and function after treatment. 
• Dental care: A dentist can help manage any dental problems that treatment may cause. 
• Stress management: Practicing deep breathing, mindfulness, meditation or relaxation techniques may help control stress.
• Emotional and psychological support: Support groups, counseling and social workers can give you the emotional and psychological support you and your caregivers need to cope with the challenges of treatment and life after cancer. 
• Nurse navigators: These oncology trained nurses will help coordinate your care throughout your cancer journey.   

Get more information on all the support services, including head and neck cancer support groups, offered with Banner MD Anderson’s Integrative Oncology Program. 

Life after treatment

After treatment for head and neck cancer, you'll want to focus on your health and well-being. Here's what to expect: 

• Follow-up care: Regular checkups with your provider to watch for any signs of cancer coming back. Your provider will also watch for any long-term side effects and recommend ways to manage them.
• Healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleep habits can help reduce your cancer risk and improve your overall health. 
• Rehabilitation or therapy: You may need rehab and/or other types of physical therapy after treatment to regain your function and appearance. 

Request an appointment