Suggested Reading For Men

Your Brain After Chemo: A Practical Guide to Lifting the Fog and Getting Back Your Focus

Your Brain After Chemo - is an incredibly helpful guide for anyone experiencing chemo brain, for patients who may be starting a course of treatment, and for family members and caregivers.

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Mouth Sores

Small cuts or ulcers that form in the mouth's inside lining are known as mouth sores. These may develop into a bacterial infection. Mouth sores can affect the gums, tongue, roof of the mouth, or lips. Mouth sores, also known as oral mucositis, may cause pain making it difficult to talk, eat, or swallow.

Who do mouth sores affect?

Radiation therapy patients are most likely to experience mouth sores if treatment is focused on the head and neck area. Chemotherapy drugs may also cause mouth sores, especially those taking high doses and simultaneously undergoing bone marrow transplantation.

When do mouth sores occur and how long do they last?

Mouth sores usually develop within 1 or 2 weeks after initializing chemotherapy. However, they are short-term side effects and heal within 2 to 4 weeks after ending chemotherapy

Radiation usually causes mouth sores to develop 2 to 3 weeks after beginning therapy. Mouth sores from radiation may take 6 to 8 weeks to heal.

Managing Mouth Sores

Preventing mouth sores and minimizing pain and discomfort is important. Good oral health is necessary for mouth sores to heal. Patients should brush and floss several times a day. A dentist can advise patients on maintaining proper oral healthcare. Special solutions and prescription medications designed to coat the lining of the mouth may help mouth sores heal.

During chemotherapy, cold temperature limits the amount of drug that reaches the mouth. Sucking on ice chips during the first half-hour of treatment may reduce risk of mouth sores. Also, intravenous medication may be used before high-dose chemotherapy and bone marrow transplant.

Prevention and management methods for mouth sores:

Patients should check mouth twice per day	Use small flashlight and tongue blade Remove denture and look under plates
Perform oral maintenance 30 minutes after eating and every 4 hours	Use soft nylon toothbrush, soft foam swab, or popsicle stick with gauze wrapped around it Nonabrasive toothpaste or solution (2 cups water and 1 teaspoon of baking soda) Moisturize lips using K-Y jelly or lip balm	Soften bristles of toothbrush by soaking in hot water Avoid toothpastes with ash whiteners or other additional ingredients Avoid using Vaseline or other oil-based lubricants
Products that dry or irritate mouth should be avoided
Diet habits should minimize discomfort and promote healing	Drink 2-3 quarts of fluids per day Use straw when drinking Eat soft foods Eat foods at room temperature or slightly warmer Avoid spicy, greasy or fried foods Avoid salty or high-sugar foods Avoid sharp or crunchy foods Avoid citrus fruits and juices Avoid alcohol, caffeine and carbonated beverages
Discontinue use of tobacco, either smoking or chewing
Special precautions with dentures	Remove dentures between meals regularly Do not use loose-fitting dentures If mouth sores are severe discontinue use of dentures completely	Antibacterial soap is highly suggested to clean dentures

When should a patient contact doctor regarding mouth sores?

Mouth sores should be treated as soon as possible in order to prevent them from becoming severe. A doctor should be consulted immediately upon first sign of mouth sores.

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Suggested Reading For Men