Check the mouth daily for signs of infection. Yeast or fungal infections look like white spots, while bacterial infections appear red and inflamed. If you suspect a yeast or fungal infection, ask for a prescription rinse, tablet, or cream with an antifungal agent such as nystatin or clotrimazole. If herpes-type mouth or vaginal sores start to develop, the antiviral acyclovir or a newer antiviral called valacyclovir (Valtrex) may help. If mouth sores become infected, the doctor will probably suggest a peroxide or chlorhexidine antibacterial mouth rinse. The doctor can also prescribe oral antibiotics, depending on the type of breast cancer treatment and other factors such as blood cell counts.
Chemo-related mouth sores are an unfortunate fact of life for many patients undergoing treatment for breast cancer, but staying on top of them and being proactive about prevention, treatment, and pain relief can stop them from causing loss of appetite and weight loss.
