aphthous ulcer

[kate]

Hi to all,

My father is 70 years old and is almost seven months struggling with PC stage IV.Recently there are a dozens of aphthous ulcer in his mouth and he can't eat anything for a week. Have anyone else face this issue before? any useful treatment for this?

Any help would be much appreciated.Thanx.

[PCUK Nurse Chris]

Hello Kate,

I'm sorry to hear of dad's symptoms. Nearly 3/4 of cancer patients will suffer with oral problems and can find it impacts on their life.

It would be worth referring to dad's GP or specialist to investigate why they are persistent if not already done so.

He may benefit from topical corticosteroids and/or a medicated mouthwash (such as tetracycline).

It would be also good to carry out good essential oral care (if not already doing so) such as

-keeping the mouth moist

-rinsing the mouth thoroughly and frequently

-avoid foods that trigger discomfort

-gently brush teeth regularly with a mild toothpaste and very soft toothbrush

Dad may also benefit from pain relief if they are causing a lot of discomfort.

I hope this proves beneficial and that your father gets some relief very soon

Kind regards

Chris

pancreatic cancer nurse specialist

Support service

Pancreatic Cancer UK

[Veema]

My husband had a huge ulcer on his tongue...he had hydrocortisone pastilles that dissolve on the ulcer...might not be suitable for your dad if he has lots...and Nige had a very dry mouth, so they took ages to dissolve.

Vx

[kate]

Thanks for your reply Chris.

Before this time, these ulcers were cured by a herbal treatment(of course the doctor agreed to use) There was a gel made with licorice root and was effective that time. But know it's not sufficient and by doctor prescription we are using chlorhexidine 0.2% and nystatin powder for oral suspension.

We keep following your recommendations and for soothing his mouth, ice cream is great.but mostly we give him carrot juice with ice cream.he likes it and makes him feel better.

[kate]

Thank you Veema.

Sorry to hear this.My dad has a dry mouth too. We wash his mouth with Chlorhexidine and also coat his sore and cracked lips with petroleum jelly.

[raun cesar]

Hello Kate

Sorry to hear about your dad's symptoms. Chemo and meds bring oral problems mouth wash antiseptic,and topical painkiller will be the best in these conditions.

[Elaine123]

Hi Kate Every so often Pete has issues with his mouth and throat and he uses an antibacterial medicated mouthwash three times daily and this seems to keep it at bay most of the time. He usually gets it a few days after chemo. Hope your Dad gets some relief soon.

Elaine

X.

[kate]

Thank you raun cesar and Elaine123.

My dad couldn't eat anything at all.Now that he doesn't eat anything doctor diagnosed it is more than ulcers and is an oral thrush. We now use lidocaine and then give him food or medicine.

[Proud Wife]

My hubby had terrible oral thrush. I'm afraid I've forgotten the names of the medications. Firstly it was drops that didn't do anything and then he was put on tablets which were great. Once it clears up, eating should hopefully be easier. xx

[Veema]

My husband also had oral thrush...tablets sorted it.