Seeking Assistance
Age: 23, Weight: 180 pounds I underwent surgery to remove my wisdom teeth roughly five days ago. Since then, I've noticed the emergence of cold sores in my mouth. I am currently on antibiotics, and my dentist assured me that this is a normal reaction to the procedure.
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 6:10:39 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s common to experience various oral symptoms after wisdom tooth extraction, including the emergence of cold sores. This can occur due to stress from the surgery, weakened immunity, or irritation in the mouth. Your dentist's assurance is important, as they can best assess your specific situation.
Here's what to consider:
Cold sores are generally caused by the herpes simplex virus and can be triggered by stress or trauma, which might include your recent dental procedure. The use of antibiotics you've mentioned typically doesn't relate directly to cold sore development, but your body may be under stress while healing, making you more susceptible.
Next Steps:
-
Self-Care for Cold Sores:
- Topical Treatments: Look for over-the-counter creams or ointments containing docosanol or benzyl alcohol to help lessen the duration and relieve symptoms of the cold sore.
- Reduce Stress: Engage in gentle activities you enjoy to help manage the stress. Consider relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
-
Oral Hygiene:
- Gentle Mouth Rinses: Use warm saltwater rinses (1/2 teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water) to help soothe the mouth and promote healing without irritation.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or rough foods that may agitate the area.
-
Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep an eye on any changes in your symptoms. If the cold sores worsen, or if you notice other concerning symptoms such as excessive swelling, fever, or increased pain, it may be important to reassess your condition.
By focusing on these self-care steps and monitoring your progress, you can better manage the situation. Let me know if you have any further questions or need additional advice!
Related Questions
Concerning My Husband's Persistent Discomfort Related to His Throat
My husband, who is 33 years old, frequently expresses distress over a sensation of constriction caused by his Adam’s apple. This discomfort has been a part of his life for as long as he can remember. He shared with me that at the age of 18, he sought medical advice for this issue, but the doctor's response was dismissive. As a woman, I find it challenging to fully grasp his experience since I lack insight into certain physiological aspects. He often describes feeling as though his throat is tightening. This is not a rare complaint for him; in fact, he brings it up nearly every day. A few months back, we visited the hospital to get a comprehensive understanding of his health, particularly because he is frequently labeled a hypochondriac, and while he does have a tendency for dramatics, my quick research online suggests that this might be a more common concern than we initially thought. I genuinely wish to offer him reassurance rooted in factual knowledge. If necessary, I can provide a visual reference of his Adam’s apple. Any guidance or advice would be immensely helpful.
Inquiry about Genetic Testing and Its Implications
Age 45, height 5'4", weight 240 lbs, Caucasian; has a background of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity (achieved a weight loss of 74 pounds over the last two years); suffers from hypertension and elevated cholesterol levels; has endured various joint injuries due to an accident that required lumbar fusion from L3 to S1, along with reconstructive surgeries on the shoulder, ankle, and knee; experiences anxiety, depression, and migraines. I recently underwent comprehensive genome sequencing and discovered several significant abnormalities that require consultation with an endocrinologist. I am interested to know how healthcare providers react when patients present these types of findings. My intention is not to come across as demanding or to imply that I possess greater knowledge than my physician. However, after numerous tests and persistent efforts to seek answers over the years, I feel that we may have uncovered a genuine explanation for my symptoms, and I wish to ensure that my concerns are acknowledged and taken seriously.
Inquiry About Dental Procedures Before Major Surgery
Recently, my mother made a sudden decision to undergo a total dental extraction. She had her upper teeth removed approximately two weeks ago, and just yesterday, the lower ones were taken out. She is slated for a pre-operative assessment on Monday morning, ahead of a significant back surgery scheduled for Tuesday, which may last between eight to ten hours and necessitates intubation. I am curious about the likelihood that her doctor might postpone the surgery due to her recent dental procedure. This concern is heightened as we have booked a hotel and my husband has arranged to take two days off work for this event. Although I am still within the timeframe to cancel our hotel reservation, I am hesitant to do so if her surgery is still on track. To give a bit more context, my mother is a 54-year-old Caucasian woman, standing 5'6" and weighing 160 pounds. She does not consume alcohol, has been a potential smoker, and recently (a few months back) ceased using drugs (meth) as mandated by drug court. As far as I know, she isn’t currently prescribed any medications, apart from possibly antibiotics and Lortabs following her tooth extractions.
Abrupt Onset of Eye Discomfort
I’m a 23-year-old male with a history of slight near-sightedness but no other significant eye problems. About three days ago, I woke up to find that my eyes felt intensely painful, similar to the sensation one experiences after a lack of sleep. Although I've been getting ample rest each night, this discomfort hasn't subsided. Both eyes are affected equally without any redness, burning sensations, or visual disturbances. The soreness is quite pronounced, making it challenging to concentrate on everyday activities.
My Relationship with Milk Consumption
For nearly two decades, I have predominantly relied on milk as my primary source of hydration, consuming around five liters daily. Although I recognize that this reliance might not be the healthiest choice, my low appetite has perpetually left me underweight. In the past, I attempted to transition to drinking water; however, I noticed a concerning drop in weight along with persistent fatigue. My inquiry is whether there exists a more nutritious method to obtain calories without resorting to solid foods, and ideally, without incurring high costs?