Aphthous ulcer is a small, painful ulcer that occurs, alone or in a group, on the inside of the cheek or lip or underneath the tongue. Aphthous ulcers are most common in people between the ages of 10 and 40 and affect more women than men. The most severely affected people have continually recurring ulcers; others have just one or two ulcers each year.

APHTHOUS ULCERS CAUSES

The ulcer, which usually lasts for one or two weeks, may be a hypersensitive reaction to haemolytic streptococcus bacteria. Other factors commonly associated with the occurrence of these ulcers are minor injuries (such as at an injection site or from a toothbrush), acute stress, or allergies. In women, aphthous ulcers are most common during the pre-menstrual period. They may also be likely to occur if other family members suffer from recurrent ulcerative conditions such as Crohn’s disease.

APHTHOUS ULCERS SYMPTOMS

Each ulcer is usually small and oval, with a grey center and a surrounding red, inflamed halo. The ulcers usually last from one to two weeks.

APHTHOUS ULCERS TREATMENT

Analgesic mouth gels or mouthwashes may ease the pain of an aphthous ulcer. Some ointments form a waterproof covering that protects the ulcer while it is healing. Ulcers heal by themselves, but a doctor may prescribe a paste or lozenge containing a corticosteroid drug or a mouthwash containing an antiseptic to speed up the healing process.

Aphthous ulcers are common, painful, and they typically last for one or two weeks. Most aphthous ulcers heal well without leaving scars.

Source: A-Z Medical Family Encyclopedia by BMA

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