What causes recurrent aphthous stomatitis?

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis, also known as recurrent oral ulcers, has diverse and complex etiological factors. 1. Genetic factors are one of the key contributors, with a familial inheritance tendency; if parents suffer from this condition, their children face an increased risk of developing it. 2. Psychoneurological factors should not be overlooked, as prolonged stress and anxiety may trigger mucosal lesions in the oral cavity. 3. Impaired immune function is another major cause, as a weakened immune system fails to effectively defend against pathogen invasion, compromising the protective barrier of the oral mucosa. 4. Endocrine disorders and fluctuations in hormone levels may increase the likelihood of ulcer development. 5. Certain systemic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, may also affect the oral mucosa, leading to ulcerative changes.