Hi since starting on this treatment for ET, 8 months ago, I've had recurring oral thrush, the last episode started in feb and after tablets and various gels , it won't clear from the back of my throat.
I also take a steroid inhaler for asthma( which I know can cause this. and I rinse afterwards ) but only started with the thrush since starting the meds for ET.
Does anyone else suffer from this , and have any advice ?
Thank you .
I had oral thrush in hospital, caused by the intensive chemotherapy. They prescribed Nystatin, a mouth wash that you swallow, and it cleared it.
Thank you , will try that out !
Yes, I also experienced thrush while on hydroxyurea. The hematology office told me this was a known issue with HU. This was followed up with a significant dyschromia of the tongue. It did not resolve until I discontinued the HU. If you are taking two meds that can cause thrush there could be some kind of combination effect.
Suggest you review this with your care team. Perhaps a different treatment approach is warranted. All the best.
Yes, I was wondering if it was a combination of both meds. I understand I'm going to be on Hydroxyurea long term, so maybe it's the inhaler that may need changing.Thank you.
Depending on your individual profile and treatment preferences there would also be options other than hydroxyurea for cytoreduction. I have found the interferons (Pegasys, Besremi) to be much easier to tolerate and more effective. Ultimately it is up to you to weigh the risks/benefits of each of your treatment options and choose what is in your best interests based on your preference.
All the best.
Thank you for the info, I started treatment eight months ago( although diagnosed five yrs ago , and was only taking aspirin up until then) so didn't realize there were other meds I could have. I still have a lot to learn !!
Snowsport - I did not have thrush while I was on HU (did have other skin issues unfortunately) but my MPN specialist did warn me at the onset of treatment that thrush is one of the possible side effects. He particularly pointed this out as I too have an inhaled steroid for asthma (have had the medicine for decades with no problems) and he wanted to make sure I was aware of the potential.
Thank you , maybe there's an option to change my inhaler then .
Hydroxycarbamide 
Hydroxycarbamide 
ET and Hydroxycarbamide
