What causes frequent mouth ulcers?

Sep 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

Frequent oral ulcers may be caused by factors such as high stress, malnutrition, external injuries, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, Crohn's disease, etc. Eating small, frequent meals is recommended. For patients experiencing pain from oral ulcers that interferes with eating, mouth rinsing with 2% lidocaine or local spraying of a small amount of 1% tetracaine can help alleviate the difficulty in eating caused by ulcer pain.

Generally, frequent oral ulcers may be caused by factors such as high stress, malnutrition, external injuries, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, or Crohn's disease. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. High Stress

Long-term stress or emotional fluctuations may reduce the resistance of the oral mucosa, making it prone to developing oral ulcers. Learning stress management techniques—such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga—can help relax both mind and body.

2. Malnutrition

Malnutrition is primarily caused by dieting for weight loss or picky eating. Deficiencies in nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, and zinc can make the oral mucosa more susceptible to damage, leading to the aforementioned symptoms. Improve dietary habits by increasing intake of foods rich in B vitamins, iron, and zinc, such as whole grains, lean meats, legumes, and nuts.

3. External Injury

Oral mucosal injuries from sharp foods, accidental biting, or irritation from dental appliances (e.g., braces) can easily lead to oral ulcers. Follow medical advice to use treatments such as oral ulcer powder, watermelon frost spray, or cydiodine lozenges to relieve symptoms.

4. Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis

This condition is caused by factors including genetics, immune system abnormalities, and imbalances in oral microbiota. Patients' oral mucosa may develop ulcers after minor trauma, with slow healing and possible symptoms such as redness and pain. It is recommended to follow a doctor’s guidance in using medications such as fluocinolone acetonide cream, compound chlorhexidine mouthwash, or azathioprine tablets for treatment.

5. Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease is mainly triggered by infections and immune system dysfunction. In patients with Crohn's disease, the abnormal immune system attacks the body's own tissues—including the oral mucosa—causing inflammatory reactions and oral ulcers, which may be accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Under the guidance of a qualified physician, medications such as mesalamine enteric-coated tablets, prednisolone tablets, or compound chlorhexidine dexamethasone oral films may be used for treatment.

Brush teeth in the morning and evening, rinse mouth with mouthwash after meals, swishing for at least 90 seconds each time to remove food debris and bacteria, maintaining good oral hygiene.

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What causes a small swollen and painful area on the tip of the tongue, and what should I do about it?

In general, swelling and pain in a small area of the tongue tip may be caused by accidentally biting the tongue while eating, consuming excessively hot or spicy foods, tongue tip ulcers, lingual papillitis, oral herpes simplex, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve symptoms through general measures or medication under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, maintain a light diet and avoid overeating.

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What medication can treat tongue sores?

In general, tongue ulcers are often associated with mucosal injury, infection, or decreased immunity. Common symptoms include oral ulcers on the tongue, pain, and difficulty eating. Patients may use medications such as watermelon frost spray, compound chlorhexidine mouthwash, kangfuxin solution, iodine glycerin, and vitamin B2 tablets as directed by a physician. It is also important to maintain good daily habits and avoid consuming spicy foods.

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How can a person develop mouth ulcers?

In general, mouth ulcers may be caused by factors such as high mental stress, nutritional deficiencies, recurrent aphthous ulcers, herpetic gingivostomatitis, or traumatic oral ulcers. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing teeth in the morning and evening, rinsing the mouth after meals, and avoiding excessively hot or spicy foods.

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Can oral ulcers be transmitted to another person?

In general, whether oral ulcers are contagious depends on their specific type. Common recurrent oral ulcers are not contagious; however, oral ulcers caused by viral or bacterial infections may be transmitted to others. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene in daily life, including brushing teeth morning and night, rinsing the mouth after meals, and avoiding sharing toothbrushes or eating utensils with others.