PATIENT INFORMATION

Palliative Care (Oral Problems)

What is Palliative Care (Oral Problems) โ“

 Palliative care is treatment given to improve the quality of life of patients with serious illness and reduce any discomfort

 Oral problems include various distressing issues in the mouth ๐Ÿ‘„

 Causes: reduced nutrition, dehydration, medication, radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy, tumours, hygiene or infection ๐Ÿฅ


What are the Symptoms of Oral Problems โ“

 Dry mouth

 Taste changes ๐Ÿ‘…

 Oral pain

 Excessive salivation ๐Ÿ’ง

 Difficulty swallowing/chewing/speaking

 Bleeding

 Bad breath ๐Ÿ’จ


How do you Diagnose Oral Problems โ“

 Medical assessment

 Blood test (blood count/deficiency) ๐Ÿ’‰

 Mouth swab to test for infection ๐Ÿงซ


How do you Treat Oral Problems โ“

 Self-care/prevention: keep good oral hygiene, use antiseptic mouthwash, avoid irritating foods ๐Ÿงผ

 Saliva stimulant or substitute

 Painkiller: spray, mouthwashes or gels, morphine if severe ๐Ÿ’Š

 Anti-fungal/viral in cases of infection ๐Ÿฆ 

 Steroid medication


Why should I Worry about Oral Problems โ“

 Can reduce quality of life due to issues eating, drinking or communicating ๐Ÿ’ฌ

 May lead to malnutrition, decay or serious infection ๐Ÿ˜–


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