Some chemotherapies, whether they are taken intravenously or orally, may make your mouth sore. Pain, redness, swelling or ulcers in the mouth are known as stomatitis or mucositis. Brushing your teeth regularly with a soft toothbrush and using a special, mild mouthwash can help reduce the symptoms. If your mouthwash stings, tell your doctor, who will be able to give you a milder one. As with nausea and vomiting, some minor adjustments to your diet can also help:

• Eating pineapple keeps the mouth clean and fresh
• Moisten food with sauces and gravies
• Cold foods and drinks can soothe your mouth, so add crushed ice to drinks or eat soft ice cream*
• Avoid foods such as raw vegetables and toast which can scrape the mouth
• Avoid salty, spicy foods which can sting your mouth
• Try to drink at least a litre and a half (3 pints) of liquid a day.

* do not do this if you are receiving oxaliplatin