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Canker and Cold Sores

What is a canker sore?

Canker sores are small surface ulcers that are quite painful. They generally appear on the tongue, soft pallet, cheeks and lip mucosa. They have a higher occurrence in women than in men.

Factors that influence canker sore formation:

Stress and a weak immune system are the most influential factors triggering the formation of cancer sores. Also, acidic foods like tomatoes, vinegar and citrus as well as salty or spicy snacks can play a role. Biting the cheek while consuming hard foods, vitamin B12 deficiency, and rough tooth brushing action creates a fertile environment for canker sores.

Canker sore formation has been observed along with other symptoms in some systemic illnesses such as Behçet’s Disease.

Treatment:

Although no certain treatment has been discovered for canker sores, they heal on their own with in 7-10 days.

Cold Sores

Rarely appearing within the mouth, cold sores usually form on areas exterior to the mouth such as the edges of the lips. These growths are characterized by containing liquid. They are generally painful and the pain can be felt days before the sore forms. With time, the growth will burst and form a scab. They typically heal within 7-10 days.

Factors Influencing the Formation of Cold Sores:

The cause of cold sores is a virus known as herpes simplex. This is a virus that exists inactive in the carrier after being transmitted. Long exposure to sunlight, stress, trauma, fatigue and hormonal changes can activate the virus and precipitate cold sores.

Cold Sores are Contagious

The riskiest period is between when the sore bursts and when it heals completely. Avoid objects such as utensils or towels used by those with cold sores. Kissing someone with a cold sore could lead to transmission. It is important not to touch a cold sore, as they are contagious.

Treatment

These days, antiviral creams are used to treat cold sores.

Differences between Canker and Cold Sores:

  • Canker sores only appear inside of the mouth. Cold sores, on the other hand, rarely appear inside the mouth. They usually appear on the exterior.
  • Canker sores are not contagious, whereas cold sores can be transmitted.
  • The cause of canker sore has not been clearly determined, whereas cold sores are known to be caused by a virus.
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