Wednesday, October 3, 2012

Canker Sores

Q: Why do I get canker sores? Are they the same as cold sores?

A: Canker sores are painful, open sores that pop up inside the mouth. Possible triggers include spicy or acidic foods, minor injury to the mouth (like from an overzealous tooth-brushing session) and in some cases, deficiencies in B vitamins, iron, or zinc. Canker sores are also more common in women, possibly because they are linked to hormonal changes. While they are generally harmless, if you get them more than a few times a year, talk to a doctor, since they could indicate you have a disease like celiac or Crohn's. Canker sores are different from cold sores, which are fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes virus; they tend to appear outside of the mouth, around the lips and chin. Another big difference: Cold sore are contagious, canker sores are not.

Source: Health Magazine

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