What is oral ulcer?

Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Updated on September 11, 2024
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Oral ulcers refer to the erosion and inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, a common ulcerative condition occurring on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. They commonly appear on the inner side of the lips, tongue, underside of the tongue, cheek mucous membranes, vestibular groove, soft palate, etc. They may be accompanied by symptoms like bad breath, chronic pharyngitis, constipation, headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, irritability, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. There are two types of conditions: one is recurrent mouth sores, also known as aphthous stomatitis; characterized by repeated outbreaks but heals without scarring. The other type is called periadenitis, where there is a red halo around the eroded area that heals with scarring. Therefore, it is advisable to rinse with saltwater regularly, maintain oral hygiene, consume zinc-rich foods, regulate emotions, avoid staying up late, smoking, and drinking. This can promote the healing of oral ulcers. Additionally, under the guidance of a doctor or pharmacist, some heat-clearing and detoxifying traditional Chinese medicines can be taken.

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Written by Yao Li Qin
Pediatrics
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How to treat baby's oral ulcers

Babies with oral ulcers definitely need active treatment. There are many common causes of oral ulcers. If it is caused by viral infection and accompanied by fever, children should be given some antiviral medications. If the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees, fever-reducing medications should be administered. Additionally, local ulcers can be treated by applying some mucosal protectants to promote the healing of the ulcers. At the same time, administering some compound B-group vitamins to the child is also very important for the repair of oral ulcers. Furthermore, it is important to strengthen the adjustment of the child's dietary structure. Ensure a diet rich in a variety of vitamins from fruits and vegetables. If the child's oral ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics should be used under the guidance of a hospital doctor. Local oral ulcers should still be treated with mucosal protectants and healing agents. Meanwhile, timely supplementation of B-group vitamins is necessary.

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Written by Zhang Yin Xing
Obstetrics
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What should pregnant women do about oral ulcers?

Generally speaking, for recurrent oral ulcers, due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, most female patients experience fewer occurrences of oral ulcers. If oral ulcers occur during pregnancy, treatment can be based on the cause: First, if the oral ulcers are caused by bites or burns, Kangfuxin solution or watermelon frost spray can be used for local treatment to accelerate the healing of the ulcer. Second, if the oral ulcers are due to vitamin deficiency, the patient should pay attention to oral hygiene and can appropriately take oral vitamin tablets to enhance resistance and promote the healing of the ulcer. During the outbreak of ulcers, it is important to avoid eating spicy and irritating foods, and antibiotics are not needed for oral ulcers. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Li Cui
Dentistry
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Can mouth ulcers patches be used for tongue ulcers?

When a patient has a tongue ulcer, it is possible to use oral ulcer patches. Since tongue ulcers are a type of oral ulcer, the same medication used in traditional Chinese medicine can also be applied. This includes using oral ulcer patches or lozenges, which can be directly applied to the ulcerated surface. These treatments can promote the healing of the ulcer and play a crucial role in the treatment of the ulcer. Additionally, when experiencing a tongue ulcer, patients should drink more water, eat a bland diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, refrain from overeating, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, and appropriately supplement with some vitamins, all of which can help in the body’s recovery and adjustment.

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Written by Zhang Shu Kun
Traditional Chinese Medicine
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Can stomach fire cause oral ulcers?

If there is excessive stomach fire, it can cause oral ulcers, because excessive stomach fire leads to poor digestion in the gastrointestinal tract. If food cannot be digested properly, it will reflux into the mouth, and may also cause symptoms like throat pain and a dry, itchy throat. Therefore, if stomach fire occurs, it is essential to treat it promptly to avoid worsening the condition. Drinking some rose tea or chrysanthemum tea can effectively clear heat and detoxify, helping to reduce stomach fire. Most importantly, do not drink alcohol, smoke, or eat spicy and irritating foods, as these can exacerbate stomach fire.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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What should I do about mouth ulcers in children?

When a child has mild oral ulcers, if the baby is not particularly uncomfortable and it does not affect their eating, no special treatment is needed. You can rinse with saline solution morning and evening. Avoid consuming spicy, irritating, overly hard, overly salty, or overly hot foods to prevent damage to the oral mucosa. For infants who are still breastfed, mothers should also ensure cleanliness of the breasts. Of course, if it affects eating and the baby is also crying and restless, it is recommended to go to the hospital for timely treatment. For children's oral ulcers, it is advisable to focus on prevention. Always pay attention to oral hygiene, have a reasonable diet, increase physical exercise, and enhance the body’s own resistance.