When it comes to mouth sores, many people confuse canker sores with cold sores, but they are fundamentally different. Understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatments can help you manage them effectively.
Canker sores: Causes, symptoms, and remedies
Canker sores are small, shallow lesions that appear inside the mouth. They are not contagious and often result from stress, minor mouth injuries, or certain foods. Acidic fruits like oranges, lemons, and tomatoes, as well as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, can trigger or worsen canker sores.
Symptoms of Canker sores:
• Painful sores inside the mouth, on the tongue, soft palate, or cheeks.
• Discomfort when eating or talking.
How to treat Canker sores:
Canker sores typically heal on their own within a week, but the pain can be managed with simple remedies:
Saltwater rinse: Mix one teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Swish and spit several times daily to reduce pain and inflammation.
Over-the-counter gels: Products like benzocaine can numb the area and provide temporary relief.
Cold sores: Causes, symptoms, and treatment
Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Unlike canker sores, cold sores are highly contagious and spread through direct contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils.
Symptoms of Cold sores:
• Tingling or itching sensation around the lips before blisters appear.
• Painful, fluid-filled blisters that may ooze and scab over.
• Fever, sore throat, or swollen lymph nodes during initial outbreaks.
Triggers of Cold sores:
• Stress and fatigue.
• Exposure to sunlight or extreme weather conditions.
How to manage Cold sores:
Cold sores usually resolve within two weeks, but these tips can help:
Apply ice: Reduces swelling and numbs the area.
Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams like Abreva promote healing.
Prescription antivirals: Medications such as acyclovir can shorten the duration of outbreaks.
Sun protection: Use lip balm with SPF 30 to prevent flare-ups triggered by sunlight.
Key differences between Canker sores and Cold sores
Location: Canker sores appear inside the mouth, while cold sores occur outside, often around the lips.
Contagion: Canker sores are not contagious; cold sores are highly contagious.
Cause: Canker sores are triggered by stress or irritation, whereas cold sores are caused by HSV-1.