By Dr. Sanjog Singh, Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon – Samsara Cancer Care, Nagpur
Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers in India, and Maharashtra remains among the top five states for its incidence. According to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), nearly 30% of all cancers in men in Maharashtra are linked to tobacco chewing, misri mishri use, and other oral habits deeply rooted in local culture.
While surgery is often life-saving, many patients struggle with speech and swallowing problems afterward. These issues affect eating, communication, and confidence—making rehabilitation a crucial part of recovery.
Why Speech and Swallowing Are Affected
During oral cancer surgery, parts of the tongue, jawbone, or palate may need to be removed or reconstructed to achieve complete tumor removal. These structures are vital for pronouncing words clearly and coordinating safe swallowing.
After surgery, patients may face:
- Difficulty moving the tongue or lip
- Leakage of food or fluids from the mouth
- Slurred or nasal-sounding speech
- Choking or coughing while eating
In Maharashtra and across India, daily diets often include spicy curries, coarse rotis, and hot beverages—all of which can be challenging for patients recovering from oral surgery.
Early Rehabilitation: The Key to Recovery
At Samsara Cancer Care, Nagpur, under the guidance of Dr. Sanjog Singh, rehabilitation begins soon after surgery. The focus is not just on survival, but on helping patients regain comfort, dignity, and normalcy in daily life.
Our speech and swallowing therapy program includes:
- Targeted exercises to strengthen tongue, lip, and throat muscles
- Safe swallowing maneuvers to prevent aspiration
- Speech clarity training in Hindi, Marathi, and regional dialects
- Culturally suitable diet advice tailored to Indian food habits
Studies show that patients who begin rehabilitation within two to three weeks after surgery experience 40–50% faster recovery in speech and swallowing function.
Home-Based Tips for Indian Patients
- Start with soft, semi-solid foods such as dal-khichdi, upma, poha, curd rice, or mashed vegetables.
- Avoid spicy, oily, or very hot foods that may irritate healing tissues.
- Sip lukewarm water, buttermilk, or coconut water frequently to maintain hydration.
- Practice daily speech exercises—reading aloud in your native language helps restore fluency.
- Completely avoid tobacco, betel nut, and related products, as they slow healing and increase recurrence risk.
Family and Emotional Support
Many patients become self-conscious about speaking after surgery. Family members play an essential role in rehabilitation by listening patiently, encouraging communication, and acknowledging progress. A supportive environment can accelerate both physical and emotional healing.
A Surgeon’s Perspective
Recovering from oral cancer surgery is not only about removing the disease—it is about restoring the patient’s ability to eat, speak, and live with confidence. With structured therapy and consistent follow-up, most patients regain satisfactory speech and swallowing function within a few months.
For personalized rehabilitation and guidance, consult Dr. Sanjog Singh, Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon at Samsara Cancer Care, Nagpur. The team offers integrated post-surgical care designed for patients across Maharashtra and Central India.
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