2024 has been a challenging year for actress Hina Khan. Diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, she has been open about her journey, from chemotherapy to shaving her head. In her latest update, she revealed a new hurdle: mucositis, a common and painful side effect of chemotherapy. She sought advice from her followers on pain management, receiving overwhelming responses with helpful tips.
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What Is Mucositis?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, mucositis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, affecting nearly 50% of chemotherapy patients. It causes pain, swelling, ulcers, and difficulty eating or speaking. While temporary and self-healing, it can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life during cancer treatment.
Why Does Mucositis Occur?
Dr. Indu Bansal Aggarwal, an expert in Radiation Oncology, explains that chemotherapy and radiation affect healthy cells in the mucous membranes, disrupting their rapid turnover. This leads to mucositis. She adds that itโs not limited to cancer patientsโcertain medications, poor oral hygiene, and nutritional deficiencies can also trigger the condition.
Managing Mucositis Through Diet
Neelima Bisht, a clinical nutritionist, suggests that eating soft, bland foods can help ease discomfort. She recommends pureed vegetables, mashed potatoes, smoothies, and soups as gentle options. Staying hydrated with electrolyte-rich fluids and avoiding spicy or acidic foods can also reduce irritation.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins like E and zinc are advised to support tissue healing. Cool or room-temperature foods such as yogurt and smoothies may help numb pain.
Oral Care and Other Relief Measures
Good oral hygiene is essential in managing mucositis. Dr. Aggarwal advises regular gentle brushing and using non-alcoholic mouthwash to prevent infection. Cold therapy, such as sucking on ice chips, can help alleviate swelling, while saline or baking soda rinses soothe inflamed areas.
Hina Khan’s Brave Battle
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As Hina continues her brave fight against cancer, we extend our support to her. By sharing her journey, she inspires many facing similar challenges.
