Mouth ulcers are common, small sores that form on your gums, lips, tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of your mouth. The exact cause is not known. Although the lesion is harmless and can heal itself, pain and discomfort caused by a mouth ulcer affect eating, drinking, brushing, and even speaking, leading to a decline in the patient’s quality of life and work efficiency. Some nutritional deficiencies or emotional stress may predispose to ulcers. Children may inherit ulcers from their parents. Aphthous ulcers are not thought to be infectious. These usually fade within or right after 1 to 2 weeks, even without treatment.
What does a mouth ulcer look like?
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are shallow red, yellow, or white lesions that form on the mucous membranes inside the mouth, including the inner cheeks, lips, tongue, and gums. These ulcers can be painful and may interfere with eating, drinking, and speaking. Multiple aphthous ulcers can occur at the same time, and sometimes they are joined together.
How do you know if you have a stress ulcer in your mouth?
When you’re under stress, your body may experience changes in salivary cortisol hormone levels and immune function, which can weaken your body’s ability to fight off infections and inflammation. This weakened immune response can make the mucous membranes inside the mouth more susceptible to irritation and injury.
Additionally, stress can lead to behaviours that may exacerbate mouth ulcers, such as poor oral hygiene, teeth grinding (bruxism), and consuming more acidic or spicy foods—all of which can irritate the mouth and increase the likelihood of developing ulcers.
How long do stress-induced mouth ulcers last?
Mouth ulcers usually heal on their own in ten to fourteen days. Most mouth ulcers are harmless. But if you have a mouth sore that won’t heal and lasts longer than three weeks, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for possible causative factors and remedial treatment options.
What should I eat if I have mouth ulcers?
Sometimes such ulcers may be due to an underlying vitamin B, folate, or iron deficiency. Making a few dietary modifications can help relieve mouth ulcers.
Softer foods will be more convenient to chew and swallow. Soups and stews at room temperature are good options. Avoid very hot foods. Avoid acidic foods like tomatoes, salty or spicy dishes, and citrus fruits and juices.
A good source of protein should be part of your meals and snacks. Eat small, frequent meals. Drink liquids with your meals, as this will make it easier to swallow foods. Do not drink carbonated or caffeinated drinks. Refrain from having beer, wine, liquor, or any other type of alcohol.
How do you relieve mouth ulcers from stress?
As far as stress is concerned, it’s important to manage emotional stress effectively through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, healthy eating, and seeking support when needed to help prevent the occurrence of mouth ulcers and other stress-related health issues. If you frequently experience mouth ulcers or if they become severe, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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