Home / Health / RHOC Star's Tongue Pain Led to Cancer Diagnosis
RHOC Star's Tongue Pain Led to Cancer Diagnosis
1 Aug
Summary
- A sore on Jeana Keough's tongue was initially dismissed as a dental issue.
- Her daughter's insistence led to a biopsy confirming cancer diagnosis.
- Treatment included tongue dissection, lymph node removal, radiation, and chemo.
Jeana Keough discovered a "painful" sore on her tongue last year, a symptom that ultimately led to her cancer diagnosis. Her dentist repeatedly filed down a tooth, believing it caused the discomfort, and did not suggest a biopsy. After multiple visits, Keough was referred to an ENT specialist but initially declined a biopsy due to insurance issues, planning to find an in-network provider later.
During a visit to her daughter Kara Bosworth, the persistent tongue pain was noticed, prompting Kara to insist on an immediate biopsy upon their return home. This biopsy confirmed Jeana's cancer. She then underwent immediate tongue dissection, followed by a second surgery for neck dissection due to a "glimmer" on scans near her neck.
Keough's subsequent treatment involved daily radiation and weekly chemotherapy, which caused severe inflammation and pain, impacting her ability to talk, swallow, and breathe. She was hospitalized for malnourishment and dehydration, requiring a feeding tube. Despite the intensive treatment, she faces a 40-60% cure rate over the next five years, urging others to get reliable dental care and demand answers for any persistent health concerns.
