Canker Sores Home Remedies

What is a home health cure for canker sores?
( 9 Apr 2009)

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A canker sore is known as an apthous ulcer in medical terminology, and is basically a type of oral ulcer. It is an extremely common complaint, and is usually quite harmless, except for the pain that is caused, which in some case can be severe enough to interfere with speech and consumption of food. The causes of canker sores are not entirely certain, but several factors seem to contribute towards their appearance.

These include stress, food allergies, nutritional deficiencies (particularly vitamin B12), hormonal changes, certain medications, and consumption of certain foods, such as citrus fruits. The most common immediate cause however is trauma to the lining of the mouth. This could be the result of an external blow, chewing sharp pieces of food such as candy, and accidental biting, which is quite common.

However, even taking these causes into consideration, canker sores should not occur too often, and if they do, there is a larger underlying problem at work.

If you frequently develop canker sores for no apparent reason, you should consult your doctor in order to find out what could be wrong. Some of the previously mentioned causes can be avoided on your own, but some require medical attention. Avoiding stress is of course easier said than done, but if you find it difficult, you should try taking up meditation or yoga, or any activity you find satisfying and relaxing. However, food allergies, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances are not always easy to detect on one’s own, and you may need medical guidance and possibly even a few tests. One thing that you can do on your own is to start taking a vitamin B12 supplement, especially if you are a strict vegetarian, as B12 is not available from plant sources of food.

When ulcers do develop, you should avoid consuming spicy food as well as alcohol, as these will cause more irritation and pain. Smoking or chewing tobacco should also be avoided for the same reason. Eat soft, cool foods instead, and in general be careful when chewing and when brushing your teeth. You can try using an antimicrobial mouthwash – this usually helps the ulcer to heal faster, and also reduces the pain. Avoid anesthetic mouthwashes however as these provide only fleeting relief and can irritate the mouth and the ulcer. An effective home made mouthwash is good old warm salt water. You can also try applying liquorice root extract to the ulcer; this should be available at a medical store or else at an herbal store.

answered by G M on 9 Apr 2009, 6:27:47

Canker Sores Home Remedies

What is a home health cure for canker sores? ( 9 Apr 2009)

What is a home health cure for canker sores?
( 9 Apr 2009)