Canker sores

Definition of canker sores

Aphtha are superficial, inflammatory damage to the oral mucosa. They can appear on the gums, lips, tongue, throat and tonsils. They are usually surrounded by an inflammatory rim that causes pain to the patient .

Aphthous stomatitis occurs when many different aphthae occur at the same time.

Aphthae are divided into three different forms depending on how they occur:

• The frequently occurring minor aphthae are a few millimeters in size and lie flat on the oral mucosa. The lesions usually heal without scarring within a week.
• Major aphthous ulcers are larger than one centimeter and lie deeper in the oral mucosa. They occur rarely and usually cause severe pain to the patient. It takes two to four weeks to heal and scars may remain.
• Herpetiform aphthae are clustered accumulations of small round erosions resembling herpes.

Causes of mouth ulcers

Aphthae can occur sporadically, i.e. they occur without a clearly identifiable cause. A number of factors are known that promote the development of mouth ulcers:

• In some cases, small injuries can be identified as triggers for mucosal damage.
• Mouth ulcers often occur in stressful situations and when the immune system is weakened.
• A gluten intolerance can promote the occurrence of canker sores.
• Various histamine-containing foods such as nuts, cheese, citrus fruits and alcoholic beverages can trigger canker sores.
• Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause can lead to mouth ulcers.
• A deficit in vitamin B12 , folic acid or iron can also be behind the formation of a mouth ulcer.
• In rare cases, systemic diseases such as chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, Behçet’s disease or, for example, an HIV infection can trigger the symptoms.
• The substance sodium lauryl sulfate , which is contained in some toothpastes, can also contribute to the development of canker sores.
• It is also known that canker sores run in families .

Symptoms of canker sores

The round, whitish mucosal defects can cause severe pain . They usually announce themselves a few days beforehand with a burning sensation and a rough feeling on the mucous membrane. Eating, swallowing and speaking, for example, may only be possible to a limited extent over the course of the disease.

diagnosis of canker sores

The diagnosis of the disease is made through a detailed discussion of the medical history, i.e. an anamnesis, and an examination of the mucosal lesions. If the doctor suspects an immune disorder, an infection or a food intolerance, a laboratory analysis of your blood values ​​can follow. If the doctor suspects another cause behind the mucosal defect, he may take a sample of the tissue.

Risk of infection from mouth ulcers

Mouth ulcers are not contagious. Aphthae cannot be transmitted either by kissing or by oral sex. However, there are other STDs that manifest themselves with lesions that look similar. For example, the first manifestation of syphilis can occur in the oral mucosa and cause aphtenoid mucosal erosion.

Duration of canker sores

Aphthae can stay weeks to months until they heal again. They can also always come back, in which case one speaks of recurrent aphthae.

Consultation with a doctor for aphthae

Aphthae are usually harmless, benign changes in the mucous membrane. Nevertheless, it is worth consulting a doctor to rule out other diseases.
When should you seek help?

• The canker sores last for weeks to months.
• You can no longer eat, chew or speak properly.
• You also notice other symptoms such as fever or a general feeling of illness.
• You have lost weight and sweat profusely at night.

Therapy of aphthae

The symptomatic treatment of canker sores is aimed at relieving pain and relieving discomfort . Here, anti-inflammatory and local anesthetic drugs are used. These are available as sprays, gargles, and ointments . In the case of very severe symptoms, glucocorticoids and antibiotics are also used, which are prescribed by the doctor treating you.

You can do that yourself against canker sores

• Maintain good oral hygiene and brush your teeth regularly. Conventional mouthwash solutions can support daily care and alleviate the symptoms of canker sores.
• Protect your oral mucosa from other stimuli such as hot food and hard foods. You should also avoid very acidic or very spicy foods.
• Mouthwash solutions made from plant extracts are a well-known household remedy for canker sores . Tinctures of sage, myrrh, peppermint, ratanhia, clove, and tea tree oil can help treat canker sores.

How can Med-Healths help?

Have you noticed a change in your oral mucosa? You can use the Med-Healths app to contact a doctor and tell him about your symptoms. You can also upload pictures of your oral mucosa for the appointment. The doctor can prescribe you a medication or issue you a prescription. In addition, they can refer you to an appropriate doctor for a physical examination if further investigations are needed.