‘RHOC’ Alum Jeana Keough Details ‘Painful’ First Tongue Cancer Symptom That Led to ‘Immediate’ Dissection

Jeana Keough’s Early Tongue Cancer Symptom and Misdiagnosis

Jeana Keough, best known for her role on the reality TV series “Real Housewives of Orange County” (RHOC), recently opened up about the painful first symptom of her tongue cancer that ultimately led to an immediate neck dissection. The 70-year-old former Bravolebrity revealed in an exclusive interview how a persistent sore on her tongue was initially mistaken for a minor dental issue, delaying the critical diagnosis of her cancer.

Last year, Jeana noticed a painful sore on her tongue. Trusting her longtime dentist, she was told the discomfort was caused by one of her teeth “digging” into her tongue. The dentist filed down the tooth multiple times, believing this was the root cause of the sore. Unfortunately, no biopsy or specialist referral was suggested during these visits, and Jeana’s condition worsened.

After her third visit to the dentist, Jeana was finally referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. However, the cost of the biopsy—nearly $3,000—was prohibitive since the ENT office did not accept her insurance. She declined the biopsy at that time but promised her daughter she would schedule it immediately after returning from a trip to Florida.

The Turning Point: Family Intervention and Diagnosis

During her visit to Florida, Jeana casually mentioned avoiding spicy foods because of the pain in her tongue. Her daughter, Kara Bosworth, reacted strongly and questioned how long the sore had been present. Kara was skeptical that the tooth was the cause since it had been there all her life. She urged her mother to get a biopsy without delay.

Upon returning home, Jeana promptly scheduled the biopsy. The ENT doctor’s immediate diagnosis was cancer. This devastating news led to an urgent surgical plan. Jeana underwent a tongue dissection to remove the cancerous spot. Initially, doctors hoped the cancer was localized and that lymph nodes would remain untouched. However, scans revealed a suspicious “glimmer” near her neck, prompting a second surgery to remove 30 to 40 lymph nodes in a neck dissection.

Jeana Keough’s Treatment Journey and Current Condition

Following surgery, Jeana’s treatment regimen has been intensive. She has been receiving radiation therapy five days a week, weekly chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The side effects have been severe, including intense pain, inflammation, and difficulty swallowing, speaking, and breathing. The treatment has left her unable to talk and struggling with malnourishment and dehydration, leading to a hospital stay where a feeding tube was placed.

Despite the challenges, Jeana remains hopeful. She shared that she can “see the finish line” with only a few radiation sessions and chemotherapy rounds left. However, she also revealed the sobering reality of her prognosis, with a 40 to 60 percent chance of cure within five years. She and her medical team continue to pray for a positive outcome.

Jeana credits her boyfriend Thomas, a doctor, for his unwavering support throughout her cancer journey. She also praised his sister, a dentist, for advocating on her behalf after what she described as a “huge mistake” by her original dentist.

Lessons from Jeana Keough’s Experience: The Importance of Advocacy and Early Detection

Jeana’s story highlights the critical importance of listening to your body and advocating for thorough medical evaluation when something feels wrong. She strongly advises others to “get a good dentist” and to demand answers if symptoms persist or worsen.

Oral cancer can be deceptive in its early stages, sometimes mimicking minor dental issues. Delays in diagnosis can lead to more aggressive treatment and a more uncertain prognosis. Jeana’s experience underscores the need for timely biopsies and specialist referrals when suspicious symptoms arise.

Conclusion

Jeana Keough’s candid account of her painful first tongue cancer symptom and the subsequent urgent dissection sheds light on the challenges many face with oral cancer diagnosis and treatment. Her journey is a powerful reminder to trust your instincts, seek second opinions, and advocate for your health. If you or someone you know experiences persistent oral pain or sores, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Stay informed and proactive about oral cancer symptoms. Early detection can save lives. For more inspiring stories and health insights, subscribe to our newsletter and join the conversation today!