This single-center randomized controlled trial evaluates the effects of cold (15-20°C) versus room-temperature (30-35°C) water gargling on oral mucositis severity, pain, and comfort in patients with head and neck cancer undergoing radiotherapy. Participants will rinse their mouth four times daily for 30-60 seconds over a 6-week radiotherapy course, with follow-up for two additional weeks. The study hypothesizes that cold-water rinsing can reduce the severity of radiation-induced oral mucositis (RTOM) and pain, improve oral comfort, and minimize treatment interruptions.
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Oral Mucositis Severity
Timeframe: Baseline (prior to radiotherapy), Week 2, Week 4, Week 6 (end of radiotherapy), and 2 weeks after completion of radiotherapy
Pain Intensity (VAS 0-10)
Timeframe: Baseline (prior to radiotherapy), Weeks 1-6 during radiotherapy, and 2 weeks after completion of radiotherapy