After Treatment

After treatment for salivary gland cancer ends, talk with your doctor about developing a follow-up care plan. This plan may include regular physical examinations and/or medical tests to monitor your recovery for the coming months and years.

Most recurrences happen in the first two or three years after diagnosis, so follow-up visits will be more frequent in the first two years. Diagnostic examinations, including CT scans, may be done to watch for any recurrences or to monitor how treatment is working. People with a history of salivary gland cancer need to be monitored throughout their lifetime for the possibility of recurrence or distant metastasis.

Follow-up visits will also help manage any late or long-term side effects from cancer treatment, such as buildup of earwax. Periodic ear examinations are necessary to remove buildup of dried earwax. Prevention of dental cavities is also important. Fluoride application is recommended whenever the oral cavity (mouth) and the salivary glands receive radiation treatment.

Rehabilitation is a major part of follow-up care after head and neck cancer treatment. People may need physical therapy and speech therapy to regain skills, such as talking and swallowing. Supportive care to manage symptoms and maintain nutrition during and after treatment may be recommended. Some people may need to learn new ways to eat or to eat foods prepared differently.

Rehabilitation of functions in the head and neck is often necessary following treatment. For example, special care of the eye is necessary if there is nerve function loss. Rehabilitation of swallowing is often needed, and special procedures (moving a paralyzed vocal cord to improve voice, for example) may be necessary after removal of a large skull base tumor. Exposure to direct sunlight on affected skin is to be avoided if radiation therapy has been used as part of the treatment.

People may look different, feel tired, and be unable to talk or eat the way they used to. Many people experience depression. The health-care team can help people cope and connect them with support services.

People recovering from salivary gland cancer are encouraged to follow established guidelines for good health, such as maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, eating a balanced diet, and having recommended cancer screening tests. Talk with your doctor to develop a plan that is best for your needs. Moderate physical activity can help rebuild your strength and energy level. Your doctor can help you create an appropriate exercise plan based upon your needs, physical abilities, and fitness level. Learn more about healthy living after cancer.

Find out more about common terms used after cancer treatment is complete.