Effects of radiotherapy on the voice

Radiotherapy to the neck area may affect the quality of your voice.

Side effects of radiotherapy

You may experience various side effects during your radiotherapy which will have been discussed with you before your treatment. The side effects usually appear gradually as the treatment progresses. These side effects are often worse at the end of the treatment and for a few weeks after. They should begin to improve gradually after this.

Side effects of radiotherapy to the neck area

Radiotherapy to the neck area may cause a sore throat, hoarse or husky voice, dry mouth, difficulty and pain when swallowing.

Effects of radiotherapy on your voice

You may notice that your voice becomes hoarse or husky or you might lose your voice completely as your treatment progresses. Your voice should start to improve as the effects of the treatment settle. However, the quality of your voice can change permanently due to the radiotherapy treatment.

Looking after your voice during radiotherapy

It is important to look after your voice during your radiotherapy treatment.

• Avoid straining your voice. For example, avoid shouting or whispering; just try to speak normally in a gentle voice.
• Rest your voice if necessary.
• Avoid clearing your throat if you can as this creates more soreness and irritation.
• Make sure you take regular sips of water to stay well hydrated (if you are able to manage drinking thin fluids).

Your speech and language therapist will monitor your voice and provide advice during and after your radiotherapy treatment. You may be offered voice therapy sessions to help improve your voice if the changes to your voice persist.

If you have any other questions about your voice please contact your speech and language therapist on 01223 216200 or doctor who will be happy to help answer them.