Mouth washes should be used four times a day. Brushing the teeth when the mouth is sore may make symptoms worse. Do not use toothpicks or dental floss after treatment. These products may cut the gums making them bleed and become infected. Visiting a dentist before treatment is advised as they can treat any pre-existing dental problems.
Chemotherapy is well known for causing nausea and vomiting.
During treatment patients are given medication that should prevent nausea. Some patients may suffer from nausea after discharge from hospital and are given anti-emetic medication to take at home. It is important that these tablets are taken as DHAP chemotherapy can sometimes cause nausea for several days. If patients are feeling sick, the anti-emetic medications should be taken before meals so that nausea goes away before eating starts. Fatty foods and foods with strong aromas should be avoided.