What does mouth soreness from cancer treatment feel like?

Most people with Oral Mucositis notice mouth soreness from cancer treatment in places such as the lips, tongue, gums, inner cheeks or roof of the mouth. The lining may look red, swollen or ulcerated, and some areas can bleed with gentle contact. Food may taste different, while acidic, salty, spicy or crunchy foods can sting. Pain may make chewing, swallowing or speaking harder.

Treatment can temporarily affect the mouth lining and reduce its ability to repair irritation. Dry mouth can add to discomfort. These symptoms can have other causes too, including infection, dental problems or trauma, so tell your care team what you are experiencing.

Rinse gently with the solution recommended by your care team, use a soft toothbrush, and keep your lips moisturised with a suitable product. Choose soft, moist foods and cool or lukewarm drinks; avoid tobacco and anything that reliably stings. Do not use alcohol-based mouthwash or scrape sores. Your team can assess pain, hydration and nutrition, and may recommend a prescribed rinse or pain relief.

Contact your cancer team promptly if you cannot drink enough, are passing very little urine, have uncontrolled pain, significant bleeding, pus-like patches, or trouble swallowing saliva or breathing. A fever or sudden worsening during treatment needs urgent advice because infection can become serious quickly. Report sores that prevent eating even if you have no fever.

Could this be oral mucositis or an infection? Which rinse and pain relief should I use? What foods and drinks are easiest during treatment? When should I call about reduced drinking?