Nursing after radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma

After radiotherapy, patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma will experience oral mucosal congestion, sore throat, pigmentation and flushing of the facial and neck skin, dry mouth and other symptoms, which require a series of related care to alleviate.

1. Rinse your mouth with light salt water to keep your mouth clean; and brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush until the oral mucosa returns to normal.

2. Wear a hat when going out to protect the skin in the radiation area from exposure to the sun. Do not use external cosmetics or irritating ointments, and avoid using soapy water or irritating bath gel until the skin in the radiation area returns to normal.

3. Use nose drops 2-3 times a day to keep the nasal cavity moist. Do not dig your nose hard to prevent bleeding.

4. Keep opening and closing your mouth 100 times a day to prevent dysfunction of the temporomandibular joint.

5. It is advisable to eat high-protein, high-vitamin, easily digestible foods, such as lean meat, eggs, fish, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid spicy and irritating foods.

6. Most patients will have symptoms of dry mouth for several years in a row. They can drink tea made from honeysuckle or chrysanthemum.

7. Due to the low resistance after radiotherapy, tooth extraction in a short period of time will cause bacteria to enter the blood through the gums, causing osteomyelitis and bone necrosis.

8. Maintain a good attitude, avoid overwork, and an optimistic attitude is more conducive to recovery.