Hi All - I am starting my chemo tomorrow (Taxol and Carboplatin) and wonder what, if any, advice people have received about reducing mouth sores/ulcers. I read online that sucking on ice chips during the infusion of 5FU helps minimize sores - something about the ice numbing the area and reducing the amount of chemo absorbed in that area. While I want to avoid mouth sores, I also want to be sure the chemo is working in all the areas where cancer may be hiding.

Any suggestions or successes that people have had?

Thanks,
Nancy

Most get Mucocitis during treatment, especially with radiation, and assume you are getting that too. Yes, it's true about the ice chips may help, at least for Taxotere, called cyrotherapy, or anything cool during or shortly after the infusion, but check with your MO. Impeccable oral care is important, brushing, flossing after each meal, rinsing with salt water and baking soda. I also used biotene mouthwash, magic mouthwash, aloe vera juice, glutamine powder for tissue healing, and swished with virgin organic coconut oil. Avoid acidic, spicy, sharp textured foods that may irritate the mouth. A mouth guard helps reduce radiation scatter from any metal dental work that can increase the Mucocitis. Good luck tomorrow.