Canker Sore

Canker Sore

A canker sore, also known as an aphthous ulcer, is a type of oral ulcer which presents as a painful open sore inside the mouth or upper throat characterized by a break in the mucous membrane. The exact cause of canker sores remains unclear, though they are thought to be triggered by a combination of factors including stress, minor injury to the inside of the mouth, food sensitivities, and certain health conditions.

Symptoms and Signs

Canker sores appear as small, round, or oval ulcers with a white or yellow center and a red border. They can cause significant discomfort, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking. Unlike cold sores, canker sores are not contagious and appear inside the mouth rather than on the lips or external mucous membranes.

Causes

While the precise cause of canker sores is unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to their development:

• Stress: Emotional stress is a common trigger.
• Injury: Minor injuries from dental work, hard brushing, sports accidents, or accidental cheek bite.
• Food sensitivities: Certain acidic or spicy foods can trigger or worsen sores.
• Health conditions: Some conditions, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, and vitamin deficiencies, may increase susceptibility.
• Hormonal changes: Fluctuations during menstruation can trigger outbreaks in some women.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of canker sores typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. In cases where canker sores are frequent or severe, further testing may be conducted to rule out other conditions such as Behçet's disease, HIV/AIDS, or vitamin deficiencies.

Treatment

There is no cure for canker sores, but treatment can help reduce pain and speed up healing. Options include:

• Mouth rinses: Antimicrobial mouthwashes or over-the-counter rinses to reduce irritation.
• Topical products: Pastes, creams, or gels applied directly to the sore to relieve pain and speed healing.
• Oral medications: In severe cases, oral medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation or prevent infection.
• Home remedies: Simple remedies like rinsing with salt water or applying a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water can provide relief.

Prevention

Preventing canker sores involves managing stress, avoiding foods that trigger outbreaks, maintaining good oral hygiene, and protecting the mouth from injuries. Regular dental check-ups can also help identify and address potential issues before they lead to sores.

See Also

• Oral hygiene
• Mouth ulcer
• Cold sore
• Behçet's disease