Hello Petsamvet and thanks for your post,

I am sorry to hear about your situation. I can imagine that having sore lips must be so uncomfortable for drinking and eating.

We would always advise patients to speak to the radiographers at the hospital as they may have a protocol at the hospital about what to apply to the skin when areas become sore.

The aim will be to keep the lips well moisturised with a simple lip balm without any scent. (Do ask the radiographers what they advise). Do try and drink fluids up to 2-3 litres a day as often a dry mouth can also be a side effect. I would avoid the sun as much as possible to prevent any further damage.

We have a page on our website about radiotherapy side effects which affect the head and neck area.

Unfortunately things do get worse before they get better but it is a good idea when side effects happen that you try to minimise them by following any advice that is given.

Always let your team know about any new side effects.

I hope that the rest of the radiotherapy goes well. Do give us a ring if you would like to go through anything.

The nurse helpline is open Monday to Friday 9 am to 5 pm and the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040.

All the best,

Catherine