Herpetiform Canker Sores
Herpetiform canker sores, also known as recurrent aphthous stomatitis, are a type of painful ulcerative lesion that occurs in the oral cavity. While the exact cause of these sores is not yet fully understood, they are believed to be related to a combination of genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors. In this article, we will explore what herpetiform canker sores are as well as their symptoms, causes, and treatments.
What are Herpetiform Canker Sores?
Herpetiform canker sores are small, painful ulcers that appear on the soft tissues inside the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, and cheeks. These sores are characterized by their small size, irregular shape, and tendency to appear in clusters or groups. They are typically less than 3 mm in size and can range in color from white or gray to yellow. Typical canker sores are larger and do not tend to form in clusters like herpetiform canker sores. Herpetiform canker sores tend to heal anywhere between 10-14 days.
Picture of a Herpetiform Canker Sore
Symptoms of Herpetiform Canker Sores
The symptoms of herpetiform canker sores can vary from person to person, but they generally include:
Pain or discomfort: These sores can be very painful, especially when eating, drinking, or speaking.
Lesions in the mouth: These sores appear as small, round, or oval-shaped lesions that are surrounded by a red halo.
Clusters or groups: Herpetiform canker sores tend to appear in clusters or groups of several sores.
Recurring outbreaks: These sores can recur at regular intervals, often appearing in the same location as previous outbreaks.
Causes of Herpetiform Canker Sores
The exact cause of herpetiform canker sores is not yet fully understood. However, several factors are believed to contribute to their development, including:
Genetics: Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing herpetiform canker sores.
Immunologic factors: Herpetiform canker sores may be related to an immune system dysfunction that causes the body to attack its own tissues.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during menstruation, can trigger herpetiform canker sores in some individuals. Herpetiform canker sores can also occur right before menstration.
Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12, may contribute to the development of herpetiform canker sores.
Environmental factors: Certain foods, such as citrus fruits, nuts, and chocolate, may trigger the development of herpetiform canker sores in some individuals. Stress, trauma, and certain medications may also contribute to their development.
Read More: What are the Main Causes of Canker Sores?
Treatments for Herpetiform Canker Sores
While there is no known cure for herpetiform canker sores, several treatments are available to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with these sores. These treatments include:
Topical corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory medications that can be applied directly to the sores to reduce inflammation and pain.
Antimicrobial mouthwashes: These mouthwashes contain antimicrobial agents that can help prevent infection and promote healing.
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate the pain associated with herpetiform canker sores.
Nutritional supplements: If herpetiform canker sores are caused by a nutritional deficiency, supplements of the deficient vitamin or mineral may help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Laser therapy
Canker Shield: Canker Shield is a powder that can be applied to the sores and swished in order to rapidly speed up healing and significantly reduce the pain. Most who use it find that it is able to heal their canker sores in 2-3 days. To learn more about Canker Shield, click here.
