What is Mucositis, A Side Effect of Chemotherapy Hina Khan is Diagnosed With? All You Need to Know

Hina Khan, became diagnosed with breast earlier this year. She unfolded about her health by means of social media and never ceased to update us about her progress, struggles and more. The ‘Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai’ famed actress has kept her fans updated with every step in her battle with breast cancer. From cutting her hair, her first chemotherapy session, her wig and more. Recently, the actress posted how she is suffering with a condition  which is additionally is referred to as mucositis, a unwanted side effects of chemotherapy

In an Instagram post shared by Khan on Thursday, she urged her audience to lend a hand her with more important points in regards to the same.

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What is Mucositis?

Mucositis is a painful inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract, specifically within the mouth and throat. It be miles a conventional side effect of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, specifically in patients undergoing treatment for cancers of the head, neck, or those receiving high-dose chemotherapy.

Mucositis: Causes and Symptoms

Mucositis occurs primarily as a consequence of the direct effects of chemotherapy and radiation on impulsively dividing cells, including those found within the mucosal lining.

• Radiation Therapy: In particular in head and neck cancers, radiation can damage the mucosal lining.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can exacerbate mucositis.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate oral care can extend the chance of developing mucositis.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of certain vitamins and minerals can impair mucosal health.

Symptoms of Mucositis

1. Pain and Discomfort: Patients often report a burning sensation or pain within the mouth and throat, making it tough to eat, drink, or speak.
2. Ulcers: Painful sores can develop on the mucosal lining, leading to additional discomfort.
3. Swelling and Redness: Inflammation may bring about the tissues to go taking a look swollen and red.
4. Difficulty Swallowing: As the condition worsens, patients may experience dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing.
5. Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production may bring about dryness, further irritating the mucosal surfaces.
6. Taste Changes: Patients may notice alterations in their sense of taste.
7. Fever and Infection: Severe mucositis may bring about secondary infections, leading to fever and systemic symptoms.

Managing mucositis involves a number of strategies geared toward relieving symptoms and promoting healing:

• Oral Care: Putting forward good oral hygiene is critical. Patients should use gentle toothbrushes and non-alcoholic mouthwashes to steer clear of irritation.
• Dietary Adjustments: Soft, bland foods that would possibly possibly be easy to swallow can minimise discomfort. Staying hydrated is critical, and patients should steer clear of spicy, acidic, or crunchy foods that lets you irritate the mucosal lining.
• Topical Treatments: A ramification of of topical agents, such as mucosal barriers or gels, can offer protection to the irritated areas and promote healing.

Mucositis is a tough side effect of chemotherapy that lets you significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. Awareness of its symptoms, causes, and management options is critical for patients and caregivers. Regular conversation with healthcare providers is critical for managing mucositis effectively, making certain that patients receive the mandatory give a boost to for their well-being.