When are mouth problems from cancer treatment serious?

Mouth problems from cancer treatment are more serious if they interfere with eating and drinking, because this can lead to dehydration and malnutrition.

It's important to call your doctor or nurse if you have pain in your mouth, lips, or throat that makes it difficult to eat, drink, or sleep, or if you have a fever of 100.5 degrees F (38 degrees C) or higher.

Mouth and throat problems can happen because radiation therapy to the head and neck, some chemotherapy, and some immunotherapy can harm the mouth, throat, and lips. Problems may include taste changes, dry mouth, infections and mouth sores, pain or swelling (oral mucositis), sensitivity to hot or cold foods, swallowing problems, and tooth decay. Checking and cleaning your mouth daily and getting a dental check-up before treatment can help prevent problems, and there are ways to manage a sore or dry mouth. Your healthcare team can tell you which symptoms to call about and what steps and medicines may help.