Dear Chandana and ChristineB,

Chandana, please follow the advice of ChristineB. I might suggest one other mouthwash that had some effect for me: turmeric - one teaspoon of turmeric and 1-2 cups of water. After swishing it around, your mother can swallow it, though it shouldn't happen more than a few times a day (reduces inflammation, allowing for intake, and some studies show that its ingredient curcumin can fight cancers). My doctor is Indian American and apparently turmeric is frequently used in India; plus, there is a lot of research and new grant monies for further testing.

And, yes, cisplatin can cause hearing loss. I had to buy hearing aids this week - and they are not cheap and are probably never covered by insurance! My oncologist believes that cisplatin was the right and most effective chemo med for me with the best chance of success. I won't know for a few months if my throat cancer is eradicated; if so, I'll be okay with everything, but if not, it will be a very bad day.

I still have my PEG feeding tube but am now eating solid foods at least twice a day and am about ready to get off of it. BUT, without the tube I would have lost at least 50 pounds - and I really don't have it to lose. I had a formula that kept my weight nearly the same for seven weeks of treatment. Please look into a tube immediately. Not pleasant getting it in but it makes a world of difference.

Take care! DavidDH