Mucovitis

Public Archive
1

Have this SE bothering me since my first FEC last week, bit sore gums and a sore throat. Someone at Maggie’s recommended Gelclair to me today, any other tips at all?
Did someone have this troublsome side effect too? I don’t want them to reduce my dose, it’s not THAT bad, just a bit bothersome.

Thanks for listening,

Christine xxx

2

Hi Christine

Sorry, but it’s a common SE. It’s the chemo doing its job and killing fast growing cells - unfortunately the cells lining the mucous membranes are fast growing. Ulcers can also be a problem.

Make sure that you use a soft brush to clean your teeth. I was recommended to use an alcohol free mouthwash like Cordosyl. I know others have been told to use salt water and/or soluble paracetamol.

I found that good old Strepsils helped. If it gets very bad, do check with your BCN - they make recommend/prescribe something else.

D x

3

Thanks DJ007 for the quick reply. Is it not going away at all between sessions? I’m on day 6 today. I phoned the BCN about it two days ago, she just said to drink plenty (which I do !!).

I worry it could get worse with the next chemo.

Christine xx

4

Hi Christine

I found my mouth quite sore for a few days, then it did get better. Almost back to normal by the next poisoning!

Take care
Dx

5

Ditto what DJ said. I also got some Difflam, which is a bit of an anaesthetic too. Mention it at your pre-chemo appointment and ask if you can have something for your sore mouth. I found that the last week my mouth felt normal, but from about day 2 - day 14 the whole of the inside of my mouth felt as if I’d burnt it.

Funny enough, the SEs seem to be different depending on which chemo you’re on. Those on Tax often say that everything tastes of lard or cardboard, even chocolate!

6

Hi

I was recommended Difflam by my dentist and I’ve found it really helpful

Sue x

7

Thanks, will try to get hold of Difflam. I also ordered a sample of Gelclair in case it gets really bad. But good to know that this is normal and doesn’t mean they might reduce the dose. I want the whole portion of this chemo, whatever they thought originally is necessary.

Christine xx