Mouth Ulcers

It is now 3 weeks since my last chemo and I have started getting huge mouth ulcers. Has anyone else suffered from these and is it usual to get them when the treatment has finished?

<br />

<br />Chris R x x

[Hidden]

The number of white blood cells circulating in the blood tend to be reduced following chemotherapy.White blood cells play an important part in fighting infection, so for a while after having chemotherapy your resistance to infection may be reduced.

Some tips that may be helpful:-

1.Keep your mouth and food moist. Add gravies and sauces to your food to help swallowing.

2. Some crunchy foods may damage your gums and should be avoided when your blood cell counts are low.

3.Try to sip and have as much fluids as you can take.

4. Acidic drinks, such as orange and grapefruit juice may irritate your mouth. Warm herbal teas may be more soothing.

5.Use a soft-bristled or child's toothbrush. Toothbrush bristles can also be softened in hot water. An electric toothbrush may be helpful.

6. Replace your toothbrush frequently to prevent problems with infection.

7.If your toothpaste stings, or brushing your teeth makes you feel sick, try using a mouthwash (such as half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda dissolved in a mug of warm water).

8. Appling vaseline to dry lips is very soothing.

Hope this has been useful. Please feel free to ring the Ovacome supportline nurses to talk things through. Please see your GP if it persists.

Take care.

[Hidden in reply to Hidden]

Thanks for your advice it's really appreciated.

[optimiste]

Hi Chris

ask your oncologist for something to treat the ulcers. Mine prescribed a brilliant paste. But I found that kiddies ice lollies worked a treat - I couldn't really taste them, but they helped a lot with the pain.

Good luck with the rest of the chemo.

x

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