Why is my throat sore and tonsils red after chemotherapy?
Patient: My husband has Cll/lymphoma for 3 years. He went thru chemo first year and has been doing ok, He had a cold for about a week and the severe sore throat has lingered. His tonsils look very red. Is this a reason for concern and should his oncologist be contacted? He is 62 yrs. Doctor: Thanks for your question on HCM.Chemotherapy causes immunosupression. So if a person is on chemotherapy, he is at higher risk of infection. And Upper Respiratory Tract Infection ( URTI ) is very common as it is the vulnerable and easily infected site.So he is having URTI , post chemotherapy. Better to follow these steps. 1. Drink plenty of fluids. 2. Avoid oily and spicy food. 3. Warm water gargles 5 - 6 times a day. 4. Macrolide group of antibiotic. 5. Antihistamine and anti inflammatory drugs. He will be alright in 5-6 days.After this episode ask for influenza vaccination for him. As it will prevent future URTI.