What Causes Canker Sores? What Are the Symptoms of Canker Sores?
What Causes Canker Sores?
The exact cause of most canker sores 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. Sometimes a sharp tooth surface or dental appliance, such as braces or ill-fitting dentures, might also trigger canker sores.
Some cases of complex canker sores are caused by an underlying health condition, such as an impaired immune system; nutritional problems, such as vitamin B-12, zinc, folic acid, or iron deficiency; and gastrointestinal tract disease, such as Celiac disease and Crohn's disease.
Are Cold Sores Another Name for Canker Sores?
No, although cold sores and canker sores are often confused for each other, they are not the same. Cold sores, also called a fever blister or herpes simplex type 1, are groups of painful, fluid-filled blisters. Unlike canker sores, cold sores are caused by a virus and are extremely contagious. Also, cold sores typically appear outside the mouth – usually, under the nose, around the lips, or under the chin while canker sores occur inside the mouth.
What Are the Symptoms of Canker Sores?
You may have a canker sore if you have:
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
A tingling or burning sensation prior to the appearance of the sores
Sores in your mouth that are round, white, or gray in color, with a red edge or border
In severe canker sore attacks, you may also experience:
Fever
Physical sluggishness
Swollen lymph nodes
Votes:26
Comments: 0