Head and neck cancer: managing xerostomia and other treatment induced side effects

Patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer face a myriad of treatment options. Each treatment is accompanied by acute and chronic side effects. Xerostomia is a side effect of radiation therapy and, if not managed properly, can disrupt the patient's quality of life and lead to other health related issues. This article provides a broad overview of head and neck cancer and examines the current modalities utilized in the treatment and prevention of xerostomia.