Everything tastes funny: Tips to Help with Taste Alterations
Does food taste differently than you expect it to taste? Sometimes, cancer therapies may result in taste alterations. These alterations may result from chemotherapy, a reduction in salivary flow or radiation therapy directly to the tongue. Here are some tips that may help combat taste alterations: Avoid using metal utensils if you have a metallic taste in your mouth, and instead use plastic utensils. Rinse your mouth frequently with a solution of 1/4 tsp of baking soda and 1/
Managing and Treating the Side Effects of Head and Neck Radiation Therapy
Mucositis Mucositis usually resolves once therapy is completed. Prophylactic measures may help reduce the severity and duration of mucositis. This includes maintaining good oral hygiene and rinsing with sodium bicarbonate solution (baking soda and water), even before mucositis develops. Additionally, avoiding spicy, hot, and acidic foods may help reduce the severity and duration of mucositis. It is recommended that one brushes with a mild toothpaste when experiencing mucositi
What are some of the side effects of head and neck radiation?
Xerostomia/Hyposalivation Xerostomia is the medical term for the sensation of dry mouth. Hyposalivation signifies a reduction in salivary flow and is an objective, measurable entity. Radiation therapy affecting the head and neck where the salivary glands are in field of radiation is associated with salivary gland atrophy. Radiation doses of 25 Gy or greater are associated with hyposalivation, reduced salivary flow and function. In addition to reduced flow, the saliva produced