I have been suffering from recurrent mouth ulcers for the past four years. B-complex capsules provide only temporary relief, and the ulcers keep returning. Please suggest possible causes and a more permanent treatment approach.
Recurrent mouth ulcers for many years can be frustrating and uncomfortable, especially when they keep returning after temporary improvement with B-complex capsules. Mouth ulcers can occur due to several reasons, including vitamin B12, iron, or folic acid deficiency, stress, lack of sleep, acidity, dehydration, hormonal changes, spicy or acidic foods, food allergies, smoking, or injury from sharp teeth or brushing too hard. In some people, repeated ulcers may also be linked to underlying conditions such as anaemia, digestive disorders, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, or immune-related problems. Since your ulcers have been recurring for four years, it is important to look for the root cause instead of only taking temporary medicines. A long-term approach includes maintaining good oral hygiene, drinking enough water, reducing stress, getting proper sleep, and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, green leafy vegetables, milk, curd, eggs, pulses, nuts, and iron-rich foods. Avoid very spicy, salty, acidic, or extremely hot foods if they trigger ulcers. Using a soft toothbrush and avoiding toothpaste that causes irritation may also help. Doctors sometimes prescribe vitamin supplements, medicated mouth gels, antiseptic mouth rinses, or anti-inflammatory medicines for symptom relief, but these work best when the underlying cause is identified and treated properly. Because the ulcers are recurrent and long-standing, you should consult a physician, dentist, or oral medicine specialist for a proper evaluation. Blood tests may be advised to check vitamin B12, iron levels, folic acid, hemoglobin, and other health conditions that can contribute to repeated ulcers. Seek medical attention sooner if the ulcers are unusually large, extremely painful, associated with fever, weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or do not heal within two weeks. With proper diagnosis and long-term care, recurrent mouth ulcers can often be controlled much more effectively and episodes may become less frequent.