Canker sores occur in the lining of the mouth and lips. They are painful, contagious and may be confused with herpes infections. Both sexes are affected, but are more common in women.
Causes of Canker Sores
There are many conditions thought to predispose someone to the development of a canker sore. They include emotional or physical stress, anxiety or premenstrual tension, injury to the mouth lining caused by rough dentures, hot food, tooth brushing or dental work, irritation from foods, such as chocolate, citrus, acid foods (vinegar, pickles), salted nuts or potato chips and a virus infection. Like cold sores, they are caused by virus infections.
Signs and Symptoms of Canker Sores
Canker sores produce mouth ulcers that are small, shallow and very painful. They are usually covered by a gray membrane and their borders are surrounded by a halo. The can appear on the lips, gums, inner cheeks, tongue, palate and throat. During one attack, 2 or 3 ulcers usually appear. Sometimes, the number of ulcer can reach 15. All activities that involve the mouth, tongue and lips may be painful. Tingling or burning for 24 hours prior to the outbreak may give warning that a canker sore is about to appear.
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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