Men and women discussing mouth cancerWhat to ask your doctor about radiotherapy for mouth cancer

Some questions you might ask your doctor

  • Why are you recommending radiotherapy for me?
  • What is internal radiotherapy?
  • Will I need internal or external radiotherapy or both?
  • I've heard of newer types of radiotherapy that shape the dose to the cancer, or use scans to check its position regularly. Are these suitable for me?
  • Are there any other types of treatment I could have?
  • How will the treatment help me?
  • What are the likely side effects?
  • How long will they last?
  • Is there anything I can do to help with side effects?
  • Are there any long term or permanent effects?
  • How often will I have to come to the hospital for treatment?
  • Can I get help with fares to and from the hospital?
  • Is there any transport available?
  • Will I have to stay in hospital, and if so, for how long?
  • Is there a number I can ring if I am worried about anything when I am at home?