MOUTH ULCERS
Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice
HOME CARE ADVICE FOR CANKER
SORES (HARMLESS MOUTH ULCERS)
- Canker sores: The
#1 cause of mouth ulcers.
- 1 to 3 painful, white ulcers of the inner cheeks or gums (no
fever).
- Causes include injuries from rough food, tooth brushes, biting,
food irritants, etc.
-
Antacid for Pain Relief: Use a liquid antacid 4 times
per day for pain relief. Children over age 4 can use 1 teaspoon as a mouth
wash after meals (some parents prefer regular mouth washes, but they may
sting). For younger children, put ½ teaspoon in the front of the
mouth after meals.
-
Pain Medicine: Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen
for severe pain (especially at bedtime).
-
Fluids : Offer a soft diet. Encourage favorite
fluids to prevent dehydration. Cold drinks, milkshakes, and Popsicles
are especially good. Avoid salty foods, citrus fruits and foods that need
much chewing. For infants, give fluids by cup spoon or syringe rather than a bottle (reason:
the nipple can cause pain).
-
Contagiousness: Canker sores are not contagious. Children
with fever or many mouth ulcers need to be examined before returning to day
care or school.
-
Expected Course: They heal up in 1 to 2 weeks. Once they
occur, no treatment can shorten the course, but treatment can reduce the amount
of pain.
- Call Your Doctor If:
- Mouth ulcers last for more than 2 weeks
- Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your
Doctor" symptoms.
Disclaimer: This
information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical
advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full
responsibility for how you choose to use this information.
Pediatric SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004
Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP
Reviewed 8/2004
Revised 8/2004
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