Living with
Speech changes depend on where your cancer is, and the type of treatment you have. It is more common after:
tongue cancer
soft palate or lip cancer
having lots of your teeth removed
removing all or part of your voice box (larynx)
Your voice might be huskier, quieter or sound as though you have a cold all the time. Some people lose their voice.
It might become difficult to say some particular words, or you may slur some words. This can be temporary and get better once swelling from surgery has gone down.
Sometimes it can be permanent and others might find it difficult to understand you. You will have speech and language therapy for several months after treatment if this happens.
Radiotherapy to your head and neck can make your mouth dry, making speech difficult. Your doctor can help you with treatments or advice to keep your mouth moist.
It can be upsetting and frustrating if you can’t talk as fluently, or you lose your ability to talk.
Adjusting to changes in speech can take some time. It is important to allow time to take it all in and find new ways of speaking and communicating. Carrying a notebook and pen or electronic tablet to write notes might be useful.
It might help to share how you feel with people in a similar situation. Ask your doctor, speech and language therapist or specialist nurse if there is a support group in your area. Or you can search for a local head and neck support group on the Mouth Cancer Foundation website.
Go to the Mouth Cancer Foundation website
Some people find online communities helpful, particularly when talking is more difficult or slower than it used to be. Cancer Chat is Cancer Research UK's free online discussion forum for people affected by cancer.
The Mouth Cancer Foundation also has a community Forum.
You might decide that you would like some counselling to help cope. Ask your GP or nurse how you can access a counsellor in your area.
Last reviewed: 17 Sept 2024
Next review due: 17 Sept 2027
Mouth and oropharyngeal cancer develop when abnormal cells in the mouth and oropharynx divide and grow uncontrollably.
Your treatment depends on where in your mouth or oropharynx your cancer is, the type, how big it is, whether it has spread anywhere else in your body and your general health.
Coping with mouth and oropharyngeal cancer can be difficult. There is help and support available.
Getting practical and emotional support can help you cope with your diagnosis, and life during and after treatment.
Mouth cancer can start in the lips, gums or soft sides of your mouth. The oropharynx is the part of the throat (pharynx) just behind the mouth. Cancer starting in the oropharynx is called oropharyngeal cancer.
About Cancer generously supported by Dangoor Education since 2010. Learn more about Dangoor Education
Search our clinical trials database for all cancer trials and studies recruiting in the UK.
Connect with other people affected by cancer and share your experiences.
Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.
