Is it advisable for a 3-year-old child with oral ulcers to take vitamin C?

Jun 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

These days, my daughter has been complaining of mouth pain, and there are several white blisters inside her mouth. The doctor diagnosed it as a mouth ulcer. Is it advisable for a 3-year-old child with mouth ulcers to take vitamin C?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Guo Huijie
For a 3-year-old child with oral ulcers, appropriate supplementation of vitamin C is feasible. Vitamin C helps maintain the health of skin and mucous membranes, promotes wound healing, and can help alleviate symptoms of oral ulcers. Additionally, vitamin C has anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and immune-enhancing effects, which can positively contribute to the child's recovery. It should be noted that due to the young age of the child, medications with significant side effects are not recommended, nor is long-term or high-dose intake of vitamin C. Excessive intake of vitamin C may cause adverse reactions such as diarrhea, elevated uric acid levels, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, vitamin C should be used under the guidance of a physician, with proper dosage control. In addition to supplementing vitamin C, parents can also help relieve the child's oral ulcer symptoms through other methods, such as offering mild-flavored vegetables and fruits, and maintaining good oral hygiene. If the oral ulcers persist for a prolonged period or are accompanied by other symptoms, timely medical consultation is advised for targeted treatment.