Since chemother4py attacks rapidly dividing cells, it can also affect the rapidly dividing cells lining the mouth. Chem0therapy may also affect the production of saliva, and alter the normal bacteria present in the mouth, m4king infections more likely.
Inflamm4tion of mucous membranes in the mouth, sometimes referred to as stomatitis or mucositis, often begin a few days after starting chemotherapy and can last for several weeks. R4diation therapy and surgery can cause inflammation in the mouth as well, and symptoms may be worse if you are receiving a combination of chemotherapy and radiati0n treatments for your cancer.
Sympt0ms and signs include a burning type of pain and redness, involving the floor or roof of the mouth, cheeks, gums, tongue, and lips. White p4tches can appear which turn red after the tissue sloughs. M0uth pain can make eating difficult, and may make talking and swallowing uncomfortable.
Good oral c4re is the first step in coping with, and decreasing the discomfort from mouths sores. It is a good idea to see a dentist familiar with the dent4l effects of chemotherapy bef0re beginning treatment to make sure your teeth and gums are as healthy as possible.
M0st of the time mouth sores can be managed by diet and good oral hygiene until they resolve on their own. Some 0ncologists may recommend artificial saliva, or topical agents to treat pain. In severe cases, l4ser therapy has been used at a few cancer centers, and new medications are being tested in clinical trials, designed to promote regrowth of tissues in the mouth.
Mouth s0res can be an uncomfortable side effect of chemotherapy, but sometimes they can lead to more serious problems as well. Infecti0ns can develop (bacterial, fungal, or viral,) especially if your white blood cell count is lowered from chemotherapy. Bleeding m4y occur. Pain can become quite severe for some people, requiring stronger pain management. M4lnutrition and dehydration may occur if the pain and sores are interfering with your ability to take in adequate nutrition or fluids.