Head / Neck Cancer - Ohio Neuro Speech Therapy

HEAD / NECK

CANCER

HEAD/NECK CANCER

These symptoms vary depending on the type and extent of treatment (surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy), but early SLP intervention can reduce complications and improve recovery.

Common issues include:

Swallowing difficulties from radiation or surgery
Speech difficulties: unclear speech due to changes in tongue, lips, or jaw movement
Voice changes: hoarseness, weak or breathy voice, or complete voice loss if larynx was removed
Cognitive changes “chemo brain”: memory, focus, problem-solving difficulties

Role of SLPs in Head/Neck Cancer:

Swallowing Support: We teach compensatory strategies to keep swallowing muscles strong.
Guide diet modifications when needed to reduce aspiration risk.
Provide range of motion and strengthening exercises for tongue, lips, jaw, and laryngeal muscles to counteract stiffness from fibrosis
Provide techniques for clearer articulation if stiffness limits oral movements.

If you or a loved one is going through treatment for head and neck cancer, a Speech-Language Pathologist can play an important role in your care.

Cancer treatments like surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy may affect swallowing, speech, or voice, but speech therapy can help you eat safely, communicate clearly, and maintain your quality of life.