Treatment of Mucositis

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Treatment of mucositis from all causes is the same.

The treatment will depend upon the severity of the symptoms you are experiencing and your white cell blood count.

It is very important that your mouth is kept particularly clean. You should clean your mouth every four hours and at bedtime, more often if the mucositis becomes worse. You should use a soft bristle toothbrush to avoid damaging the lining of the mouth further.

A water soluble jelly will help to lubricate the mouth. Rinse your mouth frequently with a bland rinse or plain sterile water. This helps to remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth, will moisten and soothe the lining of your mouth and gums and prevent crusts forming on any sores. A salt mouthwash is perhaps best. Do not use proprietary mouthwashes which often contain alcohol and will make the condition worse.

Drink plenty of liquids, at least three litres a day, and avoid alcohol. Eat soft foods or moisten dry foods to make them softer and less rough on the sore areas. Avoid citrus or spicy foods which will aggravate the sore areas. Eat either cold or warm foods as hot foods may make symptoms worse.

If you are a denture wearer, keep these out as much as possible between meals to avoid them rubbing on the sore areas.

Smoking or use of any other tobacco products will slow recovery from mucositis.

The pain from mucositis can vary from mild to severe. In mild cases topical pain relief such as gels or creams can be useful. For moderate pain, painkillers such as paracetamol may help to provide relief. Do not take aspirin if you are receiving chemotherapy as this may cause bleeding. In severe cases your doctor may prescribe stronger painkillers either by mouth or injection.

Allopurinol and vitamin E have both shown some success in improving symptoms or eradicating mucositis.

If the mucositis is particularly severe it may be necessary to temporarily suspend your chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment. This is usually a last resort and should be avoided if possible.