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CancerConsultants
oncology resource center
Patient Resource Center
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Cancer Tips
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More Cancer Tips
Managing Mouth Sores Resulting from Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy utilizes anti-cancer agents to destroy cancer cells in the body. Since chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cells, it can damage normal cells, as well as cancer cells. Rapidly dividing, normal cells in the bone marrow, reproductive system and hair follicles are likely to be affected by chemotherapy. In addition, chemotherapy may temporarily damage the normal cells lining the mouth, stomach, intestines and esophagus (digestive tract). A patient’s age, nutritional status, general health and individual tolerance, as well as the specific chemotherapy drug used will impact the severity and duration of side effects.
When cells in the mouth are damaged by chemotherapy, patients may develop inflammation and ulcers of the mouth called stomatitis. Stomatitis typically occurs 7-14 days after chemotherapy and may last 2 to 3 weeks. Stomatitis can result in pain, infection and an inability to swallow food, thereby resulting in diminished nutritional status. Currently, there are effective strategies to reduce the risk of infection and pain associated with stomatitis.
Infection associated with mouth sores may be avoided by cleaning your mouth gently with a salt and water or soda and water rinse, as well as gently cleaning your teeth every morning and evening, as well as after each meal. If you have dentures, you should also clean your dentures every morning and evening and after each meal. Your doctor may prescribe a gentle mouthwash to help prevent infection.
If you notice sores or white patches in your mouth or have pain while swallowing, tell your doctor immediately. Depending on the severity of pain, your doctor may prescribe pain relief medicine or suggest an over-the-counter alternative. Some patients suggest sucking on ice chips to soothe a sore mouth. In addition, some facilities have mouth sore “slurpy cocktails” to soothe and relieve the discomfort associated with stomatitis. To prevent further irritation of a sore mouth, the following tips may be helpful:
- Use a soft toothbrush.
- If your toothpaste stings, ask your doctor to recommend a mild alternative.
- Don’t use commercial mouthwashes that contain alcohol.
- Drink lots of fluids.
- Be careful when you floss.
- Avoid irritating, spicy, salty or acidic foods.
- Choose meals that are moist and easier to swallow.
Stomatitis is a temporary, albeit uncomfortable, side effect. Maintaining proper oral hygiene and seeking early pain relief will reduce discomfort and may prevent complications. Take an active role in reducing the severity of stomatitis and let your nurse and/or doctor provide pain relief if necessary.
Information presented in The Daily Tip is offered as a guide to augment a patient’s research of cancer and treatment and does not replace the advice of a doctor. For more information on a specific cancer, go to www.CancerConsultants.com, www.cancer.gov, and consult your physician.
General Disclaimer: The purpose of the Patient Resource Center is to help educate patients and their families about the management of cancer in order to facilitate shared decision-making with their treating healthcare provider. This program meets Oncology Nursing Society guidelines for quality educational content. Information on the Patient Resource Center does not constitute medical advice. Healthcare providers should exercise their own independent medical judgment. Lilly Oncology is a sponsor of the Patient Resource Center.
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