Suggest Treatment For Burning Sensation In Tongue After Treated Cancer

Good day. The radiation therapy given to face and neck area for tongue cancer has the following side effects: 1. It burns out the taste buds resulting in loss of taste sensation. Most of the patients can only appreciate salty taste. 2. It damages saliva producing glands resulting in xerostomia (dry mouth) 3. It damages the mucosa (inner lining) of tongue, mouth and throat which causes painful and difficult swallowing. These side effects might improve with time but it is never a complete recovery. Lifestyle changes will help reduce the intensity of symptoms. I will suggest the following: 1. Maintain good oral hygiene. Avoid menthol or chlorhexidine containing toothpaste and mouth wash respectively as they cause irritation of mucosa. Use only benzydamine containing mouth wash. 2. Take frequent small sips of water instead of full glass at a time in order to keep mouth moist. 3. Chew sugar free chewing gums to stimulate the residual salivary glands to produce saliva. 4. Avoid spicy, sour foods. Generally salty foods are better tolerated in this condition. 5. Use of suspension sucrulfate may help. Keep in mouth for 3-5 minutes and then swallow. 6. If you have acid reflux or waterbrash, take treatment for it. I hope these measures help. If you have any further questions I will be happy to answer. Thankyou for choosing Healthcare Magic.