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What causes mouth ulcers on the tongue?

Jun 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Huijie
Introduction
Tongue ulcers may be caused by malnutrition, excessive internal heat ("shang huo"), vitamin deficiencies, recurrent oral ulcers, or infections such as herpes simplex virus. It is important to maintain a balanced diet, ensure adequate intake of vitamins and nutrients, keep a regular sleep schedule and positive mental state, practice good personal hygiene, and avoid contact with infected individuals to reduce the risk of viral infection.

Generally, tongue ulcers may be caused by malnutrition, internal heat ("shang huo"), recurrent oral ulcers, vitamin deficiencies, or infection with the herpes simplex virus. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Malnutrition

Malnutrition may result from long-term unbalanced diet, leading to insufficient or deficient nutrient intake. This can affect the health of the oral mucosa and reduce resistance, making it easier for tongue ulcers to develop. It is important in daily life to maintain a balanced diet and supplement essential vitamins.

2. Internal Heat ("Shang Huo")

Internal heat is usually caused by factors such as consuming spicy foods, high mental stress, and irregular作息 (daily routines), resulting in an imbalance of yin and yang in the body. This may lead to dryness and congestion of the oral mucosa, causing tongue ulcers. A light diet is recommended, and spicy or irritating foods should be avoided as much as possible.

4. Recurrent Oral Ulcers

Recurrent oral ulcers may be related to immune system abnormalities, genetic factors, and environmental influences. Recurrent oral ulcers can cause repeated ulcerative lesions in the oral mucosa, including on the tongue, often accompanied by symptoms such as pain and a burning sensation. Patients may use medications such as oral ulcer powder, cydiodine tablets, or lysozyme tablets under the guidance of a physician.

3. Vitamin Deficiency

Vitamin deficiency is typically caused by a long-term unbalanced diet, inadequate vitamin intake, or problems with the body's absorption and utilization of vitamins. Insufficient vitamins impair cell metabolism and mucosal repair, making the tongue mucosa prone to inflammation and leading to oral ulcers. Symptoms may also include angular cheilitis and cheilitis. Patients should take vitamin B2 tablets, vitamin C tablets, folic acid tablets, and other supplements as directed by a doctor.

5. Herpes Simplex Virus Infection

Herpes simplex virus infection may occur through direct contact with blister fluid, saliva, or genital secretions from an infected individual. The virus invades mucosal cells in the tongue area, triggering an inflammatory response that causes cell damage and necrosis, resulting in ulcers. This condition is often accompanied by symptoms such as pain, fever, and fatigue. Patients should use antiviral medications such as acyclovir tablets, ribavirin tablets, or penciclovir cream under medical supervision.

In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, regular作息, and a positive mindset. Personal hygiene should be emphasized, and contact with infected individuals should be avoided to reduce the risk of viral infection.

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