Aphthous ulcers

Aphthous Ulcers

Aphthous ulcers, also known as Canker sores, are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. Pronounced as /ˈæfθəs ˈʌlsər/, the term "aphthous" is derived from the Greek word "aphtha", which means ulcer; while "ulcer" is from the Latin word "ulcus".

Causes

The exact cause of most Aphthous ulcers is unknown. Stress or tissue injury is thought to be the cause of simple Canker sores. Certain foods, including citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables (such as lemons, oranges, pineapples, apples, figs, tomatoes, and strawberries), can trigger a Canker sore or make the problem worse.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Aphthous ulcers include a painful sore or sores inside your mouth, on the tongue, soft palate (the back portion of the roof of your mouth), or inside your cheeks. The sores are usually round or oval with a white or yellowish center and a red border.

Treatment

Treatment for Aphthous ulcers involves alleviating pain, reducing inflammation, and preventing infection. Over-the-counter topical medications and mouth rinses may provide temporary relief. Prescription treatments are also available for severe or persistent cases.

Related Terms

• Canker sores
• Mouth ulcers
• Oral health
• Oral hygiene
• Oral medicine

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Aphthous ulcers
• Wikipedia's article - Aphthous ulcers

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