How to Treat a Canker Sore

If you have ever had a canker sore, you know how painful and embarrassing it can be. Luckily, it will go away once you know what to do. While the sore is a painful condition, over-the-counter pain relievers are an excellent way to relieve the pain. Also, you should avoid acidic and spicy foods, as they can poke and hurt the sore. Finally, for the best results, you should treat your canker sore as soon as it appears.

Treatment options

There are several different treatment options for canker sores. The pain is unbearable, and the sores usually last up to three weeks. Sometimes, the sores are accompanied by a high fever and other symptoms. Although a doctor's treatment may be necessary, many different treatment options are available. Here are some of the most common ones. A simple home remedy for canker sores is to use mouthwash that contains lidocaine. If these methods do not work, you may need to see a specialist.

A visit to a doctor may be necessary if your canker sore recurs. They can help you decide which type of medication is best. In some cases, acidic food can exacerbate the condition. To limit the risk of a canker sore, restrict the consumption of acidic foods such as potato chips. You may also want to limit your alcohol intake and avoid stressful situations. Finally, get plenty of rest to prevent recurrences of the sore.

Causes

Canker sores are often associated with emotional stress, which can be caused by many factors. The causes are unknown, but some research suggests acidic foods and citrus fruits may be the culprit. Ill-fitting dentures may also promote the development of canker sores. However, there is no evidence that the causes of canker sores are infectious. The sores only appear in the mouth. They are frequently confused with cold sores.

Canker sores can be minor or significant, but the latter is more painful. Major canker sores last for a few weeks and may leave a large scar. Major canker sores are typically larger than minor ones and can develop in clusters of ten to one hundred sores. Little canker sores are generally a single ulcer that heals without leaving a scar. Major canker sores can be caused by dental work, excessive brushing, or accidental cheek biting.

Symptoms

While the causes of canker sores are largely unknown, the symptoms can be excruciating and last for weeks. If the sore is left untreated, it can lead to more severe problems, including cellulitis, fever, and fatigue. It may even spread beyond the mouth, interfering with your daily routine. Consult your primary care physician and/or dermatologist if the sore continues to cause discomfort.

While several home remedies are available, it is best to consult a doctor for treatment. Some people apply a mouthwash that contains milk of magnesia. Some patients find relief by applying ice chips directly to the sore. Other natural remedies include ice chips and milk of magnesia. To prevent the sore from spreading, use a mouthwash without alcohol. However, it's essential to be aware that some types of mouthwash can be dangerous.