People treated with radiation therapy may have some or all of these side effects:

• Dry mouth. Drinking lots of fluids can help. Some patients find artificial saliva helpful. It comes in a spray or squeeze bottle.

• Sore throat or mouth. Your health care provider may suggest special rinses to numb your throat and mouth and help relieve the soreness.

• Delayed healing after dental care. Many doctors recommend having a dental exam and any needed dental work before radiation therapy.

• Tooth decay. Good mouth care can help keep your teeth and gums healthy and can help you feel better. If it's hard to floss or brush your teeth in the usual way, you can try using gauze, a soft toothbrush, or a toothbrush that has a spongy tip instead of bristles. A mouthwash made with diluted peroxide, salt water, baking soda, or a combination can keep your mouth fresh and help protect your teeth from decay. It may also be helpful to use fluoride toothpaste or rinse.

• Changes in sense of taste and smell. During radiation therapy, food may taste or smell different.

• Fatigue. During radiation therapy, you may become very tired, especially in the later weeks of treatment. Resting is important, but doctors usually advise their patients to stay as active as they can.

• Changes in voice quality. Your voice may be weak at the end of the day. It may also be affected by changes in the weather. Voice changes and the feeling of a lump in your throat may come from swelling in the larynx caused by the radiation. The doctor may suggest medicine to reduce this swelling.

• Skin changes in treated area. The skin in the treated area may become red or dry. Good skin care is important at this time. Try to expose this area to the air but protect it from the sun. Avoid wearing clothes that rub, and do not shave the treated area. You should not put anything on your skin before radiation treatments. Also, you should never use lotion or cream without your doctor's advice.

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