Hi,
i am about to begin my radiotherapy along with weekly chemo (cisplatin) for the next 6 weeks. (Mmm! - although am thinking postively about the postive effects!) My doctor has told me to use Corsydyl 4x daily. I have this week had a filling and two wisdom teeth removed (the teeth only really needed filling but access to them isn't easy and I guess will get worse, so they whipped them out!). I have used this mouthwash in the past,(prior to cancer diagnosis) but find it very strong and am worried that it will further damage my mouth. I understand the importance of oral care and the radio and post-radio issues but has anyone else used other products instead of the Corsydyl? I have ordered some Biotene products, but should I still use the Corydyl? Any thoughts or advice would be very welcome as I won't see my doctor until over a week into treatment. Thank you!
Georgia

Hi gms.
In the early days of the radiotherapy the mouthwash shouuld be OK, but I would have thought it would be too strong later on as your mouth starts to get more sensitive. When you are having your Radiotherapy there should always be a registrar or a senior Radiographer who you can discuss these issues with. Just ask the radiographers to set up a meeting.
Good Luck with the treatment. I had a four week course of radiotherapy with two fairly large doses of cisplatin. The treatment takes a lot out of you, but hopefully the outcome makes it all worth while.
Jenni

Hi Jenni,
Thanks for taking the time to reply and for your advice, which is much appreciated. I realise that the treatment will be difficult but I suppose I'll just have to take it day by day and tell myself that it'll pass! It's reassuring to hear from you, I hope things are going well for you
Georgia

Georgia,

This is a very exciting time for me. I have been on extended sick leave since my treatment, and I'm due to go back to work on Monday. I'm feeling very fit and well, with only a little fatigue and a slight weakness in my right shoulder. I now want to put the last year behind me and look forward to an exciting future in a new job.

Hello gms

If your teeth are presently in good health, you can try keeping them so. The teeth are at risk from the dry mouth caused by lack of saliva. You can find out more about this complication and how to care for your mouth and teeth at the MCF Website section on Complications.

The advice given in this previous post on oral hygiene will help you look after your teeth. Corsodyl (chlorhexidine) is great for controlling the plaque that causes gum disease when you can't brush but it stains the teeth. If you brush well, and don't have gum disease, you might not need to use it.

Best wishes
Vinod