Canker Sores and Mouth Sores

APHTHA SORES AND CAUSES

Mouth ulcers, also known as aphthae, are tissue disorders whose cause is not yet fully known. These sores with a white, yellow or gray center are not the same as herpes. These sores, which are quite painful, definitely occur in the mouth and appear on the lips, cheeks, tongue, gums or palate. Often 2-3 sores are seen at the same time.

Although mouth sores are seen to affect women more, they can be seen in almost everyone from childhood onwards. They heal in 7 to 10 days and whether they will recur or not varies from person to person. We said 'the exact cause is unknown' but there are various factors thought to be effective on aphthae, the reasons that trigger these sores. Different factors ranging from toothpaste to food are considered. Before listing these factors, let's add that mouth sores are not contagious.

Physical trauma

Accidentally biting the cheek, very hot food or drinks, irritation of the mouth due to a sharp object, dentures or orthodontic appliances are examples of physical trauma that can cause mouth sores.

Foods

Acidic foods and drinks can affect mouth sores. Here, acidic drinks do not mean drinks such as cola or soda. For example, orange juice is one of the most common drinks that cause complaints in people with mouth sores or sensitive mouth tissue. Not only oranges, but also citrus fruits in general have a high acid content. In addition to fruits with high acid content, vinegar, vinegar sauces, salty, spicy, hot foods, pickles, snacks and many chemical-containing ready-made foods can cause mouth ulcers. You can review what you ate a day or two before to get a clue about what might have touched you.

Allergy

In 90% of food allergies, milk, peanuts, hazelnuts, soy, fish, wheat or shellfish are seen to trigger food-related allergy types. Gluten, cow's milk proteins, chocolate, cinnamon, walnuts, almonds, tomatoes, figs, lemons and strawberries are reported to contribute to mouth ulcers. As a result of histamine secretion, cells and tissues in the mouth can be damaged and mouth sores can occur as one of the allergic symptoms.

Some Toothpastes

Not every toothpaste, but toothpaste or mouthwash-like oral hygiene products containing 'sodium lauryl sulfate' (SLM) have been seen to trigger canker sores. The reason for this is explained as (SLS) drying out the protective layer in the mouth tissues and making the underlying tissue more vulnerable to sores.

Vitamin or Iron Deficiency

Iron and vitamin deficiency, and especially vitamin B3, B9 (folic acid) and B12 deficiency may trigger mouth ulcers. These vitamins help with issues such as supporting skin health and the nervous system, producing hormones and blood cells, which can cause mouth ulcers when deficient. Vitamin deficiency can also be a sign of poor nutrition and weakening of the immune system.

Stress

It is no longer surprising to see stress among the causes of many physical complaints, and it can be counted among the complaints in canker sores. Unfortunately, our bodies do not delay in physically reacting to the anxious thoughts we carry throughout the day, the unhappiness at work or at home, our state of worrying about everything or the stressful hours we spend in traffic. In addition to hormonal changes during women's menstrual periods, tension can also invite canker sores.

Genetics

A study has shown that 35% of people who suffer from canker sores have at least one other person in their family who also suffers from canker sores. It has been observed that in 90% of identical twins, both siblings develop canker sores. It has been revealed that when canker sores occur in people with a family history of canker sores, they develop this condition at an earlier age and with more severe symptoms.

Celiac Disease

Celiac disease means that the body is intolerant to a protein called gluten found in wheat, rye and barley. In this case, it manifests itself with inflammation in the small intestine. Another symptom of celiac disease is mouth sores.

Immune Deficiency

Any immune disease that attacks the body's immune system, such as HIV or Lupus, can cause mouth sores.

Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy during oncology treatment can cause large sores in the mouth.

Definitely consult your doctor in the following cases!
* Mouth sores that last more than 4-10 days.
* When canker sores appear in your mouth for the first time.
* When canker sores larger than 1 cm occur.
* When canker sores appear much more frequently than before.
* When canker sores begin to appear much more frequently than before.
* When joint pain, diarrhea, fever and spots on the body are also seen with canker sores.