What causes frequent mouth ulcers?
Aug 31, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, frequent mouth ulcers may be caused by factors such as high stress, vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, gastric ulcers, or Crohn's disease. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a healthcare professional. In daily life, maintain a scientifically balanced diet, consume more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, avoid raw, cold, spicy, and irritating foods, and minimize overly salty or greasy foods.
Generally, recurrent oral ulcers may be caused by factors such as high stress levels, vitamin deficiencies, medication side effects, gastric ulcers, or Crohn's disease. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. High Stress Levels
When experiencing significant psychological stress, levels of stress hormones in the body rise, which may suppress immune system function, making the oral mucosa more susceptible to bacterial infection and leading to ulcer formation. Practicing stress management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help relax both the mind and body.
2. Vitamin Deficiency
Vitamins from the B complex and vitamin C play important roles in cell growth and tissue repair. Insufficient intake can impair the oral mucosa’s ability to heal, making it prone to developing ulcers after minor injuries. It is advisable to adjust dietary habits to ensure adequate intake of foods rich in vitamins B and C, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
3. Medication Side Effects
Certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and chemotherapy agents, may irritate the oral mucosa or disrupt normal cell growth and repair processes, resulting in oral ulcers. Under a doctor’s supervision, medication dosage adjustments or alternative treatments may be considered. Maintaining good oral hygiene, rinsing the mouth after meals, and preventing bacterial overgrowth are also important measures.
4. Gastric Ulcer
Gastric ulcers may result from factors such as diet or Helicobacter pylori infection. These ulcers can lead to gastroesophageal reflux, allowing stomach acid and other digestive juices to flow back into the mouth, irritating the oral mucosa and triggering ulcers. Symptoms may include stomach pain, bloating, and other gastrointestinal discomforts. Treatment may involve medications such as hydrotalcite chewable tablets, colloidal bismuth pectin capsules, or cimetidine tablets, as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.
5. Crohn's Disease
Crohn's disease may be associated with genetic and environmental factors. In affected individuals, the immune system abnormally attacks intestinal tissues, causing chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. This inflammatory response may extend to the oral mucosa, resulting in oral ulcers. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and unintended weight loss. Treatment may include medications such as sulfasalazine enteric-coated tablets, mesalazine enteric-coated tablets, or balsalazide sodium tablets, taken as prescribed by a doctor.
In daily life, maintain a scientifically balanced diet, consume more vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins, and avoid raw, cold, spicy, or irritating foods. Also, minimize overly salty or greasy foods to reduce the risk of oral ulcers.
