What are side effects of radiation for mouth cancer?
What are side effects of radiation for mouth cancer?
Possible side effects of radiation therapy for oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer
- Skin changes like a sunburn or suntan in the treated area.
- Hoarseness.
- Loss of taste.
- Redness, soreness, or even pain in the mouth and throat.
- Dry mouth.
- Trouble swallowing.
- Feeling tired.
- Open sores in the mouth and throat.
How long does it take for mouth sores to heal after radiation?
Mouth sores from radiation may last four to six weeks after your last radiation treatment.
What are the effects of radiotherapy on the oral mucosa?
Some of the complications of radiotherapy are mucositis, xerostomia, dental caries, loss of taste, trismus, infection and osteoradionecrosis. This review describes the effect of radiotherapy on the oral cavity and highlight the prevention and treatment options available for these complications.
What are the side effects from oral cancer surgery?
Side effects
- fatigue.
- skin problems.
- sore mouth, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing.
- infection.
- taste changes.
- loss of appetite.
- nausea and vomiting.
- hair loss.
What are 5 effects of radiation?
Radiation Effects on Humans
| Dose (rem) | Effects |
|---|---|
| 5-20 | Possible late effects; possible chromosomal damage. |
| 20-100 | Temporary reduction in white blood cells. |
| 100-200 | Mild radiation sickness within a few hours: vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue; reduction in resistance to infection. |
Does radiation affect the teeth?
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may cause changes in the lining of the mouth and the salivary glands, which make saliva. This can upset the healthy balance of bacteria. These changes may lead to mouth sores, infections, and tooth decay.
Does radiotherapy damage your teeth?
Radiotherapy increases your risk of dental decay. Fluoride helps prevent decay by hardening the teeth. Harder teeth resist decay more effectively.
How can you reduce the side effects of radiation?
What can you do to take care of yourself during radiation therapy treatment?
- Be sure to get plenty of rest.
- Eat a balanced, nutritious diet.
- Take care of the skin in the treatment area.
- Do not wear tight clothes over the treatment area.
- Do not rub, scrub, or use adhesive tape on treated skin.
When do you start feeling better after radiation?
The general effects of radiation therapy like fatigue, nausea, and headaches resolve fairly quickly after treatment. Your body just needs time to process the radiation but can recover within a few weeks.
Is radiotherapy effective for oral cancer?
Radiation therapy is known for its particular effectiveness against head and neck tumors, including cancers of the mouth. Radiation therapy can be used in one of several ways for mouth cancers. It may be recommended after surgery to prevent the cancer’s regrowth.
