Aphthous ulcers, commonly known as canker sores, are small, painful sores that develop on the soft tissues inside the mouth. They usually appear as round or oval lesions with a white or gray center and a red border. These ulcers can make eating, drinking, and speaking uncomfortable.
Symptoms
Aphthous ulcers typically present with:
• Painful sores inside the mouth.
• Sores that may be round or oval in shape.
• A burning or tingling sensation before the sore appears.
• Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
• Painful sores inside the mouth.
• Sores that may be round or oval in shape.
• A burning or tingling sensation before the sore appears.
• Difficulty eating or drinking due to pain.
Causes
The exact cause of aphthous ulcers is not well understood, but several factors may contribute to their development:
• Stress: Emotional stress can trigger outbreaks.
• Injury: Biting the inside of the cheek or irritation from braces or dental work.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamins such as B12, folate, and iron.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations during menstrual cycles may increase occurrence.
• Certain Foods: Spicy, acidic, or hard foods can irritate the mouth.
• Stress: Emotional stress can trigger outbreaks.
• Injury: Biting the inside of the cheek or irritation from braces or dental work.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of vitamins such as B12, folate, and iron.
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations during menstrual cycles may increase occurrence.
• Certain Foods: Spicy, acidic, or hard foods can irritate the mouth.
Diagnosis
Aphthous ulcers are usually diagnosed based on their appearance and location in the mouth. A healthcare provider may:
• Perform a physical examination.
• Ask about symptoms and medical history.
• Rule out other conditions if ulcers persist or recur frequently.
• Perform a physical examination.
• Ask about symptoms and medical history.
• Rule out other conditions if ulcers persist or recur frequently.
Treatment Options
While there is no cure for aphthous ulcers, several treatments can help manage symptoms and promote healing:
• Topical Treatments:
• Corticosteroids: Such as triamcinolone paste can reduce inflammation and pain.
• Amlexanox paste: Applied directly to the ulcer to speed healing.
• Over-the-counter anesthetics: Like benzocaine or lidocaine for temporary pain relief.
• Mouth Rinses:
• Saltwater rinse: Helps soothe irritation.
• Chlorhexidine mouthwash: An antiseptic that can reduce bacteria and promote healing.
• Oral Medications:
• In severe cases, doctors may prescribe systemic medications like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
Home Remedies
Several home remedies may provide relief:
• Rinsing with warm salt water or baking soda solution.
• Applying milk of magnesia directly to the ulcer.
• Sucking on ice chips to reduce swelling and numb pain.
• Avoiding irritating foods like citrus fruits and spicy dishes.
• Topical Treatments:
• Corticosteroids: Such as triamcinolone paste can reduce inflammation and pain.
• Amlexanox paste: Applied directly to the ulcer to speed healing.
• Over-the-counter anesthetics: Like benzocaine or lidocaine for temporary pain relief.
• Mouth Rinses:
• Saltwater rinse: Helps soothe irritation.
• Chlorhexidine mouthwash: An antiseptic that can reduce bacteria and promote healing.
• Oral Medications:
• In severe cases, doctors may prescribe systemic medications like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.
Home Remedies
Several home remedies may provide relief:
• Rinsing with warm salt water or baking soda solution.
• Applying milk of magnesia directly to the ulcer.
• Sucking on ice chips to reduce swelling and numb pain.
• Avoiding irritating foods like citrus fruits and spicy dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are aphthous ulcers contagious?
A: No, aphthous ulcers are not contagious; they cannot be spread from person to person.
Q: How long do aphthous ulcers last?
A: Most aphthous ulcers heal on their own within 10 to 14 days without treatment.
Q: When should I see a doctor about an ulcer?
A: If an ulcer lasts longer than two weeks, is unusually large, or if you experience frequent outbreaks, consult a healthcare provider.
Contact
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