Three stages of oral mucosal reactions caused by lung cancer chemotherapy

Lung cancer is a common tumor of the respiratory tract and generally requires chemotherapy. While eliminating the tumor, a series of toxic side effects will also occur, aggravating the patient's pain. Adverse reactions of the oral mucosa are a common manifestation, which can be divided into three stages according to the degree of redness and swelling of the mucosa.

Mild: Mild symptoms only include redness, swelling, erythema, congestion of the oral mucosa, reduced secretions, no rupture or ulcers, dry mouth, thirst, slight pain, and reduced food intake. The symptoms at this stage are relatively mild, and basic oral care should be done to keep the oral cavity clean. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste after meals. Eat soft food, avoid eating too cold, too hard, or too hot food, avoid spicy and irritating food, quit smoking and drinking, and take heat-clearing and detoxifying drugs, such as Niuhuang Jiedu Tablets and Liushen Pills.

Moderate: The condition progresses further, with obvious congestion and edema in the oropharynx, formation of spotted white film and ulcers, obvious pain, and difficulty eating. During this period, appropriate mouthwash should be selected according to the patient's oral pH value, 8-10 times/day, gargling for 2 minutes, and oral sprays such as Guilin Xigua Shuang, Shuangliao Houfeng Powder, Jinhuang Powder, and Ulcer Paste are commonly used to protect the oral mucosa, reduce inflammation and relieve pain, and promote ulcer healing. Eat more high-protein, high-vitamin, and easily digestible foods.

Severe: In severe cases, the oral mucosa is extremely congested, eroded, and bleeding, fused into a white film, the ulcer worsens, and there is purulent secretion, severe pain, inability to eat, and occasional fever. At this stage, patients should suspend chemotherapy, strengthen oral care, remove purulent secretions, and urge patients to rinse their mouths 8-10 times/day. To prevent mold and fungal infections, you can take fluconazole as prescribed by the doctor, and give intravenous antibiotics, supplement with high-nutrient solution, such as amino acids, albumin, etc., to promote the healing of ulcers as soon as possible.