Can Canker Sores Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Canker sores and mouth ulcers can often can lead to substantial pain while talking, eating, and sleeping. However, they can also cause soreness and discomfort due to swollen lymph nodes that are present during outbreaks. It is common that canker sores cause swollen lymph nodes under your chin during an outbreak.
Why Do Canker Sores Cause Swollen Lymph Nodes Under Your Chin?
Canker sores often become infected. During infection, lymph nodes accumulate debris, such as bacteria or dead cells [1]. In addition, your body is sending more white blood cells to the area to promote healing. These factors lead lymph nodes to swell up and become quite sore. This typically occurs to the submental and submandibular lymph nodes which are located under your chin and on the side of your neck.
You will typically notice that if the canker sore is on one side of your mouth, the swollen lymph nodes will occur on that same side under your chin.
There is no need to worry, as this is quite normal and happens commonly during outbreaks for many individuals who get canker sores.
What Should You Do?
One way to help reduce the swelling is to take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. In addition, applying a hot compress to the affected area can help with the discomfort as well. Make sure to get enough fluids and sleep to help with recovery.
Find A Canker Sore Treatment That Works
Another important thing that you should do is find an over-the-counter treatment that helps speed up the healing process. Canker Shield is a product designed to rapidly heal canker sores, so that you do not have to be in pain for 7-14 days. In doing this, it helps take care of the outbreak and prevent lymph nodes from becoming swollen and tender. Click here to learn more about Canker Shield.