When is radiotherapy recommended for nasopharyngeal cancer?

The nasopharynx is positioned behind the nose and close to the base of the skull, nerves, and hearing structures. Radiation can treat the primary tumour and areas at risk around it. It can also include lymph nodes in the neck when they are involved or considered at risk.

Depending on the stage, tumour features, and health of the person receiving treatment, radiotherapy may be combined with chemotherapy or another medicine. Imaging and examination help the team shape the treatment field and spare normal tissue where possible.

Before treatment, tell the team about hearing changes, dental problems, jaw stiffness, swallowing difficulty, weight loss, and medicines. A dental review, nutrition advice, or hearing assessment may be useful before treatment starts.

During treatment, the lining of the mouth and throat may become sore, saliva may change, and tiredness can develop. Ask for a mouth-care plan and advice on soft foods, fluids, skin care, and exercises for jaw movement. Do not wait until symptoms interfere with eating before reporting them.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow fluids, uncontrolled bleeding, sudden vision or hearing changes, new facial weakness, severe headache, or confusion. Contact the oncology team promptly if fever or dehydration symptoms develop during treatment.

Ask which areas will be treated, whether chemotherapy is planned alongside radiation, how hearing and swallowing will be monitored, what mouth and skin care you need, and which symptoms require a same-day call.