Managing the Side Effects of Chemotherapy
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Mouth and Throat Sores
Sores appearing in the mouth and throat are a common side effect of chemotherapy. The mouth and throat are lined with rapidly dividing cells, which are susceptible to damage from some chemotherapy drugs. Mouth sores usually occur within a few days to a week following chemotherapy. You may experience a burning sensation, inflammation, sores, ulcers, discomfort, or pain inside your mouth. Keep your doctor informed about your mouth sores, as they may become severe enough that it is necessary to delay treatment and reduce dosages.
Tell your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Here are some tips to prevent and treat mouth sores:
- Maintain good oral hygiene. Use a soft toothbrush and gently floss your teeth.
- Avoid using tobacco or alcohol.
- Rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution two to three times daily.
- Soften your food with gravy or sauce before eating.
- Eat soft foods that are easy to swallow, such as yogurt, mashed potatoes, and eggs.
- Avoid sharp, crunchy, hot, or spicy foods that can hurt your mouth.
- Suck on ice chips during chemotherapy. This reduces blood flow to the mouth and decreases the severity of mouth sores.
