Individuals can sometimes develop very sore mouths at the end of their life; this can be a very distressing symptom for some people and may require treatment interventions and close monitoring. This symptom may be caused by the side effects of some medicines (dry mouth can be a common side effect). Palliative treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy can also cause a sore mouth.
Things to consider:
- Maintain regular mouth care, a smaller and softer toothbrush may need purchasing if the mouth is sore, good lip care is needed, and the individual may need lip balm applying regularly. If the person has dysphagia and is at risk of aspiration use a water-based lip balm and non-foaming toothpaste.
- Encourage the individual to avoid foods which may be dry or difficult to manage when having a sore mouth and encourage plenty of sauces and gravy with meals.
- Is the individual on medication to help manage their saliva, if so, speak to the health professional about the dry mouth as this may need reviewing.
- Try to encourage the individual to drink through a straw if tolerated and if this is not contraindicated due to the person having dysphagia and being at risk of aspiration.