Oral Issues During Chemotherapy:

Oral side effects can include many symptoms, such as mouth sores, issues swallowing, white patches in mouth.

CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IF YOU HAVE:

·       A fever of 100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher

·       New redness, sores, or white patches in your mouth

·       Bleeding of your gums or mouth

·       Trouble swallowing

·       Pain when you swallow

·       Pain that doesn’t get better with pain medication

·       Any questions or concerns

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided on the Weathering Chemo is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

IF having mouth issues, sensitive sores, etc.

AVOID acidic foods, like citrus

INSTEAD, try

  • pudding

  • popsicles

  • cream cheese

  • yogurt

  • sticky white rice

  • macaroni and cheese

  • baked potato

  • bread (pumpernickel)

  • mashed potatoes

Here is a classic recipe to help with oral issues due to chemotherapy.

Always check with your oncology team regarding your medical concerns, including mouth sores/irritation/etc., as they can prescribe and/or recommend treatment tailored to your specific needs.

Oral Health on Bad Days

If you are struggling to do basic activities of daily living, like brushing your teeth at the sink, then this video is for you! This video offers demo and strategies to make brushing your teeth at the sink easier. Education on compensatory strategies and energy conservation.

IMPORTANT SIDE NOTE:

This may not work for you today. And that's OK.

You know YOU best. Listen to your body. We are all in different places in healing.

If you do not feel like this is do-able for you right now... perhaps if you just had diarrhea or you are super weak... then listen to your body and go lay down after toileting. You can always try this another day :-)

EASIER ALTERNATIVE

(grading it down), if you cannot get up/walk/stand:

Have someone bring you your toothbrush, toothpaste, a small cup of water to swish, and a small bowl to spit in. Sit upright. A washcloth to dry your mouth may help too!

OTHER ALTERNATIVES:

(not as effective as toothbrushing, but better than nothing):

1. Have someone bring you a dampened, super-soft toothbrush and lightly freshen your teeth.

2. Try premoistened dental wipes.

3. Have a companion bring you a dampened washcloth and smooth along teeth/gums.