HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes Slimy Saliva In An Oesophageal Cancer Patient?

I am recovering from the side effects of treatment for esophageal cancer. My recovery has been proceeding nicely, but in recent days I have experienced slimey saliva when I eat. Ordinarily I can clear my mouth and throat within a few minutes, but today this phenomenon has persisted for hours. I am unable to eat and my throat has become quite sore from the effort to expel the slimey substance. (It looks like saliva, but it is thicker and slimier.) What is going on and what can I do?
Wed, 20 Aug 2014
Report Abuse
Dentist, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery,  's  Response
I believe you have received radiation therapy for your cancer. Radiation often causes a decrease in production and thicker, ropy saliva. Try taking a lot of fluids. keep sipping water after a few minutes. you might want to try lime juice to stimulate salivary secretions. Also you can use an artificial salivary substitute if it doesnt help. For the sore throat, try doing warm saline gargles and take honey followed by water to wash it down.
I find this answer helpful
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes Slimy Saliva In An Oesophageal Cancer Patient?

I believe you have received radiation therapy for your cancer. Radiation often causes a decrease in production and thicker, ropy saliva. Try taking a lot of fluids. keep sipping water after a few minutes. you might want to try lime juice to stimulate salivary secretions. Also you can use an artificial salivary substitute if it doesnt help. For the sore throat, try doing warm saline gargles and take honey followed by water to wash it down.