What is Mucositis and How is it Treated?

Oral mucositis is a common side effect of cancer treatment. It affects your mouth and your gastrointestinal tract (GI tract).  

Some treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and stem cell transplants can break down cells in your GI tract, causing inflammation and infection. 

Mucositis typically appears as painful sores in the mouth and throat. These sores can make swallowing and eating difficult. Mucositis can also affect your stomach and intestines and could cause other symptoms like stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, or painful bowel movements. 

Mucositis can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. If left untreated, mucositis can lead to undernutrition and can even interrupt cancer treatment. Your health care team can help you manage discomfort due to mouth sores.   

How is mucositis diagnosed?

If you think you may have mucositis, it is important to let your doctor know right away. In addition to reviewing your medical history, your doctor will conduct a physical examination to determine whether you have mucositis. This includes looking at any sores or swelling in your mouth. Your doctor may also order imaging tests to determine if you have tissue inflammation. A blood test is also helpful to identify the presence of bacterial or fungal infection.  

How is mucositis managed?

The best mucositis treatment for you depends on your symptoms and how severe they are. For many people, a mix of daily self-care and prescribed therapies can help reduce discomfort and support healing. 

Practice good oral hygiene. Gently brush your teeth at least twice a day and be sure to rinse out your mouth after meals and before bed. Stay hydrated by sipping water throughout the day. This can help you reduce irritation and inflammation in your mouth.

Avoid mouthwashes that contain alcohol because they can cause dryness and aggravate sensitive tissue. 

Try “Magic Mouthwash.” Magic mouthwash is a common term for an oral rinse prescribed by your doctor that consists of combined medications. It is used to soothe mouth and throat sores. Your doctor will decide what medications to include in the mouthwash depending on your symptoms. 

If you have sores in your throat, your doctor may prescribe a magic mouthwash that can be swallowed. However, magic mouthwash sometimes includes ingredients that should not be swallowed. Always follow your doctor’s instructions closely for use. 

Avoid tobacco products. This includes cigarettes or smokeless tobacco products, like chew and snuff. These products can increase your risk of periodontal disease and mouth lesions. Learn more about quitting tobacco. 

Use topical anesthetics. Ointments like lidocaine or benzocaine can help by temporarily numbing the area. Topical anesthetics can provide some pain relief for mouth sores.  

Ask your health care team about over the counter stomach medications. These can help to provide quick relief from pain, nausea, and diarrhea caused by mucositis. It is important to check in with your doctor first before taking any new medications. 

Consider temporary diet changes. Sometimes, small diet changes can provide relief if you are experiencing stomach upset. Your doctor and dietitian will work with you to create a meal plan that works best for you.  

Although mucositis can be a painful and disruptive side effect of cancer treatment, it is often manageable. Your health care team can help you find the right combination of medical care, self-care, and symptom relief strategies. 

HealthTree is committed to providing data-driven information and support to people living with blood cancer.  You can contribute to this mission by completing simple surveys about your experience with blood cancer today.  

Create an Account

Sources:

• The Oral Cancer Foundation-Mucositis 
• Cleveland Clinic-Mucositis
• Good RX Magic Mouthwash: What You Need to Know