Hina Khan reveals mucositis diagnosis amid battle with stage 3 breast cancer: ‘It’s really hard when you can’t eat’

Hina Khan, who is currently battling stage 3 breast cancer, has revealed that she is experiencing mucositis, a common side effect of chemotherapy. Taking to Instagram, she shared her struggles with the condition and sought advice from her followers.

Mucositis, characterised by painful inflammation of the mouth and throat, can make eating difficult. Hina expressed her frustration with the condition and asked for any remedies or tips that might help alleviate her symptoms.

We talked to experts to understand what the condition is and how to manage it.

 

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According to Dr Jayanta Thakuria, Director – Internal Medicine and Rheumatology, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospitals, Faridabad, mucositis causes the ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the digestive tract, most commonly affecting the mouth and throat. “It is a frequent side effect of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy,” she tells indianexpress.com.

The severity of mucositis can vary from mild redness to extensive ulceration, which can make it challenging for patients to eat, drink, or even speak.

How does chemotherapy cause mucositis?

Dr Thakuria adds that mucositis occurs as a result of damage to the rapidly dividing cells that make up the mucosal lining. Chemotherapy, which targets fast-growing cancer cells, also affects the healthy cells in the mucous membranes, compromising their integrity. This breakdown creates a vulnerable environment for inflammation, oxidative stress, and infection.

Dr Mangesh P Kamath, Medical Oncology–additional director, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, Bangalore, agrees that chemotherapy agents like 5-fluorouracil, methotrexate, and doxorubicin are especially known to cause mucositis.

What are the complications of mucositis?

Mucositis presents several complications that can significantly affect a patient’s well-being. Pain is one of the most debilitating symptoms, often making it difficult to eat or swallow, which can lead to malnutrition and dehydration, Dr Thakuria says. The open ulcers created by mucositis increase the risk of bacterial infections, potentially leading to systemic infections that could require hospitalisation. If mucositis becomes severe, it can also result in treatment delays or reduced chemotherapy doses, which might compromise the effectiveness of cancer treatment.

Dr Kamath also notes that mucositis often results in significant weight loss and a decreased quality of life, as the patient’s daily activities are disrupted by pain and discomfort.

 

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How to manage and treat mucositis

Managing mucositis focuses on alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and supporting the healing process. As Dr Thakuria explains, effective management includes good oral hygiene and the use of mouthwashes or saline solutions to prevent infections. Topical anesthetics and systemic pain medications are essential for providing pain relief. Some advanced treatments, such as growth factors or laser therapy, can help promote the healing of mucosal tissues. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary for nutritional support, hydration, and pain management.

Dr Kamath emphasizes that while mucositis cannot be entirely prevented, prompt and appropriate management can mitigate its severity and improve the patient’s quality of life. Early intervention and adjustments in cancer treatment, such as modifying chemotherapy doses, can also help control the progression of mucositis.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.

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