Many people get mouth sores during chemotherapy. So don’t be discouraged if you do, even if you are following all your healthcare provider’s instructions. Do the following to help prevent mouth sores or to ease discomfort:

• Brush your teeth with a soft-bristle toothbrush after every meal.

• If your platelet count is low, or if your gums are inflamed, flossing may cause gum bleeding. You may limit flossing.

• Use an oral swab or special soft toothbrush if your gums bleed during regular brushing.

• Use mouthwashes given to you as directed.

• If you can’t tolerate regular methods, use salt and baking soda to clean your mouth. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of baking soda into an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Swish and spit.

• Watch your mouth and tongue for white patches. This can be a sign of fungal or yeast infection, a common side effect of chemotherapy. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider about these patches. Medicine can be prescribed to help you fight the fungal infection.

Suggestions include the following:

• Try to exercise. Exercise keeps you strong and keeps your heart and lungs active. Walk as much as you can comfortably.

• Let your healthcare provider know if your throat is sore. You may have an infection that needs treatment.

• Remember, many patients feel sick and lose their appetite during treatment. Eat small meals several times a day to keep your strength up.

  • Choose bland foods with little taste or smell if you are reacting strongly to food.

  • Be sure to cook all food thoroughly. This kills bacteria and helps you avoid infection.

  • Eat foods that are soft. They are less likely to cause stomach irritation.

• Keep clean. During treatment, your body can’t fight germs very well.

  • Take short baths or showers with warm water. Avoid very hot or cold water.

  • Use moisturizing soap. Treatment can make your skin dry.

  • Apply moisturizing lotion several times a day to help relieve dry skin.

Do's and don'ts include:

• Don’t scrub the treated area.

• Ask your therapy team which lotion to use.

• Avoid sun on the treated area. Ask your therapy team about using a sunscreen.

• Don’t remove ink marks unless your radiation therapist says it’s OK. Don’t scrub or use soap on the marks when you wash. Let water run over them and pat them dry.

• Protect your skin from heat or cold. Avoid hot tubs, saunas, heating pads, and ice packs.

• Wear soft, loose clothing to avoid rubbing your skin.

Tips include:

• Stock up on easy-to-prepare foods.

• Eat foods high in protein and calories.

• Drink plenty of water and other fluids, unless directed otherwise.

• Ask your healthcare provider before taking any vitamins.

• Be prepared for hair loss and sunburn-like skin irritation in the area being treated.

• If your mouth or throat becomes dry or sore, sip cool water. Ice chips may also help.