Ongoing Mouth Ulcer Issue
A 21-year-old male, standing at 6 feet and weighing 160 pounds, is experiencing an ulcer in the inner section of his lower left lip. This issue first became apparent around three months ago during a bout with COVID-19. The sore fluctuates in size daily, appearing either larger or smaller each morning. Generally, it doesn't cause much discomfort unless there is pressure applied to it. About five weeks back, while eating, he unintentionally bit down hard on it, resulting in increased tenderness and inflammation in the surrounding tissue since that incident.
Answers (1)
3/31/2025, 2:10:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a persistent mouth ulcer that has been affected by a previous injury and possibly viral factors from your COVID-19 illness. Here are some important points:
Main Points
- Your ulcer may be linked to the COVID-19 experience and has been further irritated by biting.
- Fluctuation in size and tenderness can often occur with mouth ulcers, but the ongoing issue for three months warrants some attention.
Explanation
Mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, are often benign and can be caused by a variety of factors including viral infections, nutritional deficiencies, stress, or trauma (like biting). Since your ulcer appeared after having COVID-19, it's possible that your immune system is still adjusting.
The fact that it appeared to worsen after you bit down on it suggests that trauma can exacerbate the irritation. It’s not uncommon for ulcers to change in size and tenderness, but persistent symptoms beyond a few weeks can indicate a need for addressing it more actively.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Maintain Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth gently and use an alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid further irritation. Keeping the area clean can prevent infections.
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Apply Soothing Agents: Consider using over-the-counter treatments like oral gels or pastes specifically designed for mouth sores. These can provide a protective barrier and alleviate discomfort when eating or drinking.
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Avoid Irritants: While the ulcer is healing, try to avoid spicy, salty, or acidic foods that may cause further irritation.
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Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the ulcer. If it continues to persist beyond a month or begins to cause significant pain, changes in color, or shows signs of infection (such as pus), it might be wise to seek further evaluation.
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Consider Dietary Adjustments: Ensure you're getting enough vitamins, particularly B vitamins and zinc, which are important for mucosal health. If you suspect nutritional deficiencies, consider including more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains in your diet.
If you need further information or more specific advice, feel free to reach out!
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