Mouth, teeth, and eating problems
Effects of chemotherapy
Some chemo drugs can cause a sore mouth and throat. This is because chemo affects rapidly dividing cells (like cancer cells) and the cells in your mouth and gut are the kind which divide really quickly. A sore mouth can happen five to ten days after you have the chemo but often clears up within three or four weeks.
Effects of radiotherapy
The cells that line the inside of your mouth and throat are very sensitive to radiation. So if you're having treatment to your head or neck area you may start to get a sore mouth or throat about two or three weeks after the start of your radiotherapy. It will probably get worse while you continue with your treatment but once you've finished, your mouth will start to get better. It normally takes about three or four weeks to heal.
If you have ulcers in your mouth, they may become infected, which can be painful and make it difficult to eat. You can have painkillers to help with this.
You may also find that you get a dry mouth, especially with radiotherapy.
Drinking plenty of water, or sucking on ice cubes or lollies can help with mouth dryness and soreness.
Teeth
Radiotherapy to the mouth can make you more likely to get tooth decay and you'll need more frequent check-ups at the dentist in the future. Gently brushing your teeth with a soft toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste as many as five or six times a day will help. It's very important to tell your dentist that you have had radiotherapy before having any dental work in the future.
Eating problems
Cancer and its treatment can affect how you eat in different ways. You may lose your appetite or find that some food tastes different; chemo can cause food to taste more salty, bitter or metallic. Normal taste will come back after the chemo treatment finishes. In the meantime, talk to a dietitian if eating is a problem for you.
More information on mouth, teeth, and eating problems can be found on the Click4Tic website.
