What Are the Treatments for Sores in the Mouth From Chemo?
Chemotherapy aimed at the head or neck can cause mouth sores. The treatment damages rapidly growing cancer cells. But it can also damage healthy cells such as those in the mouth. Bacteria in the mouth make the sores prone to painful irritation and infection.
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Magic Mouthwash
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Magic Mouthwash is a prescription compound of liquid medications. The exact recipe varies between doctors. Possible ingredients include antibiotics, antihistamines, antifungals, corticosteroids and antacids.
Dietary Restrictions
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The Mayo Clinic recommends avoidance of acidic, spicy, crunchy and sharp foods that can further irritate the mouth. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Eat foods that are moderate in temperature.
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Laser Therapy
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Low-energy laser therapy can encourage cell regrowth in the mouth. This specialized and expensive treatment is not available everywhere.
Cryotherapy
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Cold therapy can help prevent mouth sores caused by the chemo medications fluorouracil and melphalan. Swish cold water or chew ice cubes during your treatment to reduce your risk of sores.
Palifermin
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The prescription medication Palifermin was designed to treat chemo mouth sores. Palifermin is a laboratory=designed human growth factor that causes cells to grow.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Katie Tegtmeyer
