Aphtha is an ailment in which the soft tissues in the mouth or throat are injured, usually by a minor trauma. The symptoms of aphtha may include pain, fever, fatigue, halitosis, and constipation. If you are unsure of what your symptoms are, talk with your doctor. Depending on the severity of your ulcer, you may need antibiotics. Antibiotics can be administered in liquid form or in a mouthwash. However, they should be taken with caution if you are pregnant or nursing. You can also use topical anti-inflammatory pastes to apply on the affected area. Using ice on the affected area can help to reduce swelling.
There are various causes of aphtha, including infection, heat accumulation, and trauma. Some people may experience a burning sensation in their mouth before an ulcer occurs. Others may feel a sharp itching inside the mouth. In severe cases, edema may be present, and the affected area is swollen. This is a sign of a more serious condition, such as aphtha. It is important to get the cause of the ulcer corrected in order to speed up healing.
Treatment of aphtha can include the use of topical steroids and anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, and immune modulators. These are used when the ulcer is not responding to other treatment methods. Anesthetic ointments are also used to reduce the discomfort of the mouth. As an alternative, a saltwater mouth rinse can be used to treat aphtha.
While the etiology of aphtha is unknown, certain aphtha symptoms can be caused by an underlying disease, such as Crohn’s disease. Other causes of aphtha are related to the immune system, such as HIV. Certain foods and drinks can be a contributing factor. Consuming too much alcohol, tobacco, and certain types of spicy food can increase your risk of developing aphtha. Taking nutritional supplements, such as zinc, can decrease your risk of aphtha.
Aphtha is a recurrent condition that occurs in some patients. These episodes typically occur within a few months of one another. Although aphtha is generally not a dangerous condition, you should consult with your doctor if your aphtha persists for a long time or becomes chronic. Those with persistent ulcers may be at risk for oral cancer.
To diagnose aphtha, your doctor will perform a complete medical history and physical examination. Your doctor may use a diagnostic instrument to determine the location and extent of the ulcers. If an ulcer is present, the swollen area will be red and inflamed. Another symptom of aphtha is a thready pulse. Patients with aphtha are often unable to eat or speak. They may also have a cough, halitosis, or constipation.
Minor aphthae are a common occurrence, occurring mostly on the buccal mucosa, the tongue body, and the soft palate. Major aphthae, on the other hand, are larger and more pronounced. These ulcers are sometimes associated with Behcet’s syndrome or HIV.
Several factors can lead to aphtha, including injury, a poor diet, and a weak immune system. Pregnancy can also be a contributory factor. Women who are pregnant should make sure to take a proper diet and follow a healthy lifestyle to prevent aphtha. Those who are lactating should also keep their diet in check.
