Mucositis

Mucositis (sometimes called stomatitis) is inflammation and damage of the mucous membranes lining the mouth and other parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
How Is Mucositis Treated?
Uncomplicated mucositis is a self-limited condition. Control of pain is critical, and systemic pain medication may be required if topical agents are ineffective. Swishing ice chips in the mouth can provide relief. Foods that are hard or require much chewing, or those that are dry, spicy, hot, or acidic should be avoided, along with alcohol and smoking. Oral care, including removal of dentures if present and frequent mouth rinses (with water or a solution made by dissolving a teaspoon of baking soda in 4 ounces of water) may also be helpful.
In severe cases, patients may need to be admitted to the hospital for pain control, intravenous fluids and nutrition, and monitoring and treatment of superimposed infection or bleeding. Patients with uncontrolled diarrhea or blood in their stool are often admitted to the hospital. Most patients who develop mucositis are able to safely resume chemotherapy, although the dose and schedule of further treatment may sometimes be altered.
Can Mucositis Be Prevented?
A thorough oral and dental care assessment prior to initiating chemotherapy may reduce the risk of mucositis. Swishing ice chips in the mouth for 30 minutes around the time of chemotherapy, sometimes referred to as “oral cryotherapy,” may provide a very inexpensive and effective way to prevent or minimize mucositis.