Treatment for head, neck and mouth cancers face patients with a catalogue of problems. The following details the main issues that you may see in general practice and outlines how you can help manage them.
Oral mucositis, also called stomatitis, is a common, debilitating complication of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It occurs in 40% of patients and results from cytotoxic chemotherapy agents and the local effects of radiation. Oral mucositis is inflammation of the oral mucosa and leaves patients prone to opportunistic infections of the mouth. Symptoms can range from redness to sever ulceration and pain. It can affect the patient’s gum and dental condition, speech and self-esteem.
Treatment for cancer is a harrowing process that can affect a patient mentally as well as physically. Management of the mouth cancer patient requires sensitivity, emotional support and ability for the dental team to communicate in a supportive and empathetic way.
Psychological interventions are available to augment pharmacological treatment. Techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy, relaxation, hypnosis and therapist support are available. If you identify a need for further support it would be appropriate to contact the patient’s consultant or GP to request it.
Download a variety of free leaflets, posters and educational resources.
The Mouth Cancer Foundation website aims to assist patients, carers and health professionals find information on head and neck cancers easily. It provides direct links to the relevant sections of existing cancer...
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MOUTHCANCER
