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subject: Canker Sore Treatment - Difference Between Canker Sores (Mouth Ulcers) and Fever Blisters (Cold Sores) [print this page]


Canker Sore Treatment - Difference Between Canker Sores (Mouth Ulcers) and Fever Blisters (Cold Sores)

There are a number of differences between canker sores and cold sores. If you find out more about the features, you will easily distinguish and find the right methods that will lead to quick treatment and recovery. You might even discover the preventive measures by knowing the causes and triggers. Here are some more tips on how to differentiate the two and what you can do to alleviate these conditions should you have them.

The Canker Sore

Described as an open and painful sore in the mouth, canker sores appear yellow or white and are usually surrounded by a bright red area which indicates inflammation. These are benign and not cancerous. Canker sores are a basic form of ulcer in the mouth. These usually appear in women more often compared to men. These can also appear at any age, although they are initially present between 10 to 40 years old. They will be found on the inner surface of the lips, soft palate, cheeks, tongue and the base of the gums. The sores can also occur in families.

These are usually related to conditions that are associated with the immune system or defense system of the body. The sores can also happen after you acquire mouth injury because of aggressive tooth cleaning, dental work or accidentally biting the cheek, tongue or lip. They are usually caused by emotional stress, menstrual periods, dietary problems from lack of vitamin B12, folic acid and iron, food allergies, hormonal changes and other similar problems. These can also appear during viral infections. The cause may not be identified all the time.

Canker Sore Symptoms

The initial symptoms are burning or tingling sensation that you get before other symptoms arise. You might discover a painful red bump or spot that will develop into an open ulcer. The center usually appears white or yellow, measuring less than 1 cm, although it can be bigger at times. You might get one or more bumps in the area. The sore might also turn gray before it starts to heal.

About Cold Sores

Fever blisters or cold sores are common skin problems that happen in 15% to 30% of the United States population. The sores are generally caused by the HSV or herpes simplex virus and are usually indicative of herpes simplex virus infection. Fever blisters are triggered frequently by the HSV-1 or the herpes simplex virus type 1 compared to HSV-2. Over 85% of the population worldwide have experienced having HSV-1 at one point. The first outbreak is usually very painful and will last longer compared to the following infections.

Symptoms of Cold Sores

The blisters usually appear red or purple and are filled with fluid. These appear at the corners of the mouth or around the lips. The blisters will rise then collapse within a few days. A yellow crust usually develops over the sores and will heal without scarring in 2 weeks. Other symptoms include sore throat, general body aches, fever, swollen lymph nodes and soreness in the lips and mouth. Cold sore treatment will then be different.

Cankers sores and fever blisters are largely a result of improper skin management and hygiene. Are you sick and tired of dealing with the pain caused by canker sores? To be able to know the difference between the two will also be a big help in taking preventive measures.




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