Is oral ulcer caused by long-term alcohol consumption?
Disease description:
My friend’s father enjoys drinking alcohol frequently. He has developed numerous small white blisters in his mouth, and eating causes increased pain. During social engagements, drinking alcohol is often unavoidable—even if only in small amounts. Could his recurrent oral ulcers be caused by long-term alcohol consumption?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Drinking alcohol may lead to oral ulcers. Alcohol is inherently irritating, and its consumption induces certain physiological changes in the body, thereby increasing susceptibility to stomatitis (oral inflammation). Additionally, oral ulcers can also result from deficiencies in trace elements or “excess internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept). Therefore, it is important to cultivate healthy lifestyle habits, such as quitting smoking and abstaining from alcohol. During this period, it is advisable to minimize intake of spicy and irritating foods, rinse your mouth promptly after meals, and maintain good oral hygiene.
