A Checklist for Chemotherapy Patients

20 Things You Need To Know About Chemotherapy

The journey after a cancer diagnosis can be approached holistically - incorporating mind, body and spirit. Click on the CancerActive article below for great advice if you or someone you know is considering Chemotherapy. The "Twenty Things You Need to Know About Chemotherapy" includes questions to ask your doctor about the treatment he or she is recommending, and what you can do to support your body during and after treatment. This is a really informative article because it is easy to read, and integrates medical information along with holistic, lifestyle, diet and exercise suggestions.

Do you know the difference between the older regimens of chemotherapy drugs and the newer biologics?
What kind of questions should you ask your oncologist?
How can you modify your diet to strengthen your body during your treatment? Did you know there are some herbs and supplements that can be very helpful?
Which alternative therapies in addition to massage, yoga and accupuncture can help you?

Learn the answers to all these questions and more at:
http://www.canceractive.com/cancer-active-page-link.aspx?n=248   This article is from the CancerActive website which is Britain´s Number 1 holistic cancer charity.

The goal of CancerActive is to EMPOWER people to increase their personal odds of beating cancer; to be able to make more informed personal choices about their cancer treatment options. They provide a wide variety of information, not just about orthodox cancer treatments, but also on complementary canccert therapies and some, currently alternative cancer treatments as well. You can sign up for their email newsletter directly on the CancerActive website. (Note: The CANCERactive name and logo are registered trade marks)  The CancerActive website contains a wealth of interesting and important information and it is worth taking the time to review many of the articles on the site.

A variety of products are available to reduce and relieve some of the common side effects of chemotherapy and radiation. To learn about these products visit Lots To Live For, Inc. On this website you will find solutions to common side effects such as compromised skin, radiation dermatitis, mouth sores, itchy scalp, and more.   

Treatment Options for Dry Mouth and Mouth Sores from Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy

Oral complications are very common for cancer patients. They can result from chemotherapy medications and / or radiation to the head and neck area. Some common oral complications that can occur are dry mouth and mouth sores.

Dry mouth is not just an uncomfortable side effect; it is also a precursor to what can become further oral complications. Your mouth’s protection comes from three pairs of salivary glands. Cancer treatments can cause salivary gland dysfunction which increases the risk of oral infections and can compromise mouth function and comfort. Persistent dry mouth can also increase decay, and cause bad breath and gum disease.

Biotene Products can help counter some of the effects that chemotherapy and radiation have on the mouth and gums. Click here to view and order Biotene Products.

Oral Hygiene Protocol for cancer patients

1. Cut your food up into small pieces. Take small bites of your food and chew it slowly.
2. Drink plenty of liquids with meals.
3. Avoid sharp or crunchy foods that could scrape or cut your mouth or gums.
4. Gently brush teeth, gums and tongue with an extra soft toothbrush.
5. Use oral care products that are specifically developed for cancer patients and people taking other medications that can affect the mouth.
6. Sip water frequently and suck on ice chips.
7. Stay away from hard sugar candy and carbonated soda.

Product suggestions for cancer mouth sores and cancer dry mouth.

Use a toothpaste that is specifically developed for cancer patients. Biotene toothpaste contains enzymes that boost and replenish your oral defense system. Biotene does not contain Sodium lauryl sulfate, which is a detergent found in many other toothpastes which is known to promote canker sores and mouth ulcers in sensitive mouths.

Biotene sugar-free gum can help to stimulate salivary flow and protect between brushing.

Oral balance gel and Oral Balance Liquid can provide instant relief to serious dry mouth sufferers. Oral Balance products are a saliva substitute. Used before bed, they can provide up to 8 hours of overnight relief. Apply Oral Balance directly onto the tongue and around the mouth.

You can purchase all of the Biotene and Oral Balance products from our website at http://www.lotstolivefor.com/