Dry Mouth
Dry Mouth
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy to the head or neck can reduce the flow of saliva and cause a dry mouth . This may make food harder to chew or swallow . It may also change the taste of food .
Try some of these tips :
• Carry a bottle of water with you . Have a sip of water every few minutes .
• Eat hard candy , Popsicles ® , and soft or pureed food .
• Chew gum .
• Keep your lips moist with lip balm .
• Ask your doctor about products that coat , protect , and moisten your mouth .
Talk to your doctor , nurse , or registered dietitian about dealing with any eating problems you may have .
Skin Care
Skin plays a key part in our health . The skin is the largest organ of the body and it is the first line of defense . It helps protect organs and tissues inside the body from the outside world . Skin helps to protect against infection and to keep our bodies the correct temperature .
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy , radiation , and biotherapy may cause changes in your skin , mouth , and nails . If you are ill , in bed , or not very active , you may be at a higher risk for developing some skin damage or breakdown .
Skin and nail changes that may occur during chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatments include :
• Infections of the mucous membranes of the mouth
• Hair loss , called alopecia , from the scalp , face , and body
• Drying , cracking , darkening , or loss of fingernails or toenails
• Infections of open skin areas such as cuts or scrapes
• Increased sensitivity to the sun
• Numbness and tingling in the hands or feet
• Acne-like rash on the face and trunk of the body
Skin changes that may occur to an area being treated with radiation include :
• Redness or darkening
• Dryness
• Itching
• Peeling of the top layer of skin , which may require treatment
• Hair loss , called alopecia , at the treated area
To protect your skin during cancer treatments :
• Drink plenty of liquids during your treatments , unless your doctor has told you to limit fluids .
• Use plenty of sunscreen . Remember to use sunscreen on your head and wear a hat or scarf when you are outside if you have hair loss in this area .
• Eat a healthful diet . Your nurse or dietitian will help you choose foods that are healthful but that do not cause mouth pain or discomfort .
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