Oral ulcer
Oral Ulcer
Oral ulcer, pronounced as /ˈɔːrəl ˈʌlsər/, is a type of lesion that develops in the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. The term "ulcer" is derived from the Latin word "ulcus", which means "sore".
Definition
An oral ulcer is a break in the skin or mucous membrane in the mouth that often causes pain and discomfort. It can occur on the tongue, inside of the cheeks, lips, gums, and on the floor or roof of the mouth.
Causes
Oral ulcers can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, infections, cancer, and certain autoimmune diseases. Some common types of oral ulcers include canker sores, cold sores, and leukoplakia.
Symptoms
Symptoms of oral ulcers can vary depending on the underlying cause, but they often include pain or discomfort in the mouth, difficulty eating or drinking, and the presence of an open sore in the mouth.
Treatment
Treatment for oral ulcers depends on the cause. It may include avoiding spicy or acidic foods, using a soft toothbrush, rinsing with a mouthwash or salt water, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, prescription medications or other treatments may be necessary.
Related Terms
- Canker sore: A type of oral ulcer that is typically small, shallow, and painful.
- Cold sore: A type of oral ulcer caused by the herpes simplex virus.
- Leukoplakia: A condition characterized by white patches in the mouth, which can sometimes develop into oral cancer.
- Mucous membrane: The moist lining of certain parts of the body, such as the nose, mouth, and throat.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Oral ulcer
- Wikipedia's article - Oral ulcer
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