2 weeks Ago By Dr Dhanashree A Iyenga
KOCHI: Oral ulcers are small, painful, round to oval sores inside the mouth. They may be white, yellow or grey in the centre and have a red border. They are commonly located on the insides of the cheek (buccal mucosa), tongue, lips, gums (gingival) or roof of the mouth (hard and soft palate).
They are generally benign and harmless, lasting for about one to two weeks and heal by themselves. Oral ulcers occur as a result of damage to the oral epithelium and its underlying layer (lamina propria). The damage could be due to trauma, irritation, chemo radiation, infections, certain drugs, inflammatory systemic disorders and many other causes.
Mouth ulcer care at homeAllow ice chips to melt over the ulcersRinse your mouth with salt water or antiseptic mouthwash Use tonsil ulcer gels containing antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agentsTo doMaintain oral hygiene – use soft toothbrush, floss regularlyDrink cool drinks through a strawEat soft, healthy and balanced foodGet regular dental checkups. Seek immediate care in case of sharp edges of orthodontic appliances (braces) or ill fitting denturesMinimise stress, get adequate sleepRegular checkups and appropriate treatment of underlying comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and liver and renal conditions, etcDont'sAvoid very salty/spicy/crunchy/acidic foodsAvoid excess intake of very hot or acidic drinks/tea/coffee/alcohol.Avoidable causesBiting the insides of the cheeksSharp teeth, braces, rough fillingsFood allergies/intoleranceCuts or burns while eating/drinkingOther causesGenetics/familial predispositionNutrient deficiencies Medications – NSAIDs, beta-blockersHormonal changesStopping smoking – tendency to develop mouth ulcers in the initial few days after quitting smokingCause for multiple ulcersHand, foot and mouth diseaseOral lichen planusCrohn’s disease/Celiac diseaseImmunodeficiency – HIV, lupus, etc Consult a doctor ifLasts for more than three weeksBleeding / unusually red in colourUlcers anywhere else on your body Associated with red, swollen jointsKeeps recurringAssociated with fever, tiredness, weight lossHeavy alcohol/tobacco useMind and bodyGot health concerns you want to share with a doctor? Are you looking for credible answers regarding symptoms, medicines or lifestyle disorders? Write to us on cityexpresskoc@newindianexpress.
com, and we will get healthcare professionals to answer them.The writer is junior consultant ENT, SUT Hospital, Pattom.
