Mouth sores can be a concerning symptom, especially when associated with an illness like COVID-19. This article explores the potential connections between COVID-19 and mouth sores, examining both direct viral effects and indirect contributing factors.
COVID-19 and Direct Oral Manifestations
The SARS-CoV-2 virus can directly impact oral tissues, leading to various manifestations. Some individuals with COVID-19 may develop ulcers and other oral problems directly attributed to the viral infection. These oral symptoms can sometimes appear alongside other, more common COVID-19 symptoms.
One recognized direct manifestation is “COVID tongue,” which can present in several forms, including indentations, swelling, mouth ulcers, or a patchy pattern on the tongue. Research indicates that cells in the tongue and inner lining of the mouth have a high number of ACE2 receptors, which the coronavirus uses to enter cells. The virus targeting these receptors may lead to inflammation and changes in the oral cavity. Other direct oral symptoms observed include aphthous-like lesions, herpes-like lesions, and geographic tongue.
Indirect Contributors to Mouth Sores During COVID-19
Beyond direct viral effects, several indirect factors related to COVID-19 can contribute to the development of mouth sores. The body’s immune response can trigger widespread inflammation, potentially affecting oral tissues. This inflammation, combined with the overall stress placed on the body during illness, may lead to the formation of ulcers.
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common symptom reported by people with COVID-19 and can increase the risk of developing oral thrush, a fungal infection. Certain medications used to treat COVID-19 symptoms, such as inhaled steroids, can also disrupt the oral microbial environment, leading to fungal overgrowth. Additionally, factors like dehydration and potential nutritional deficiencies that may arise during a severe or prolonged illness can further compromise oral health and contribute to mouth sore development.
Recognizing Common Oral Symptoms
Understanding their typical appearance can help in identifying mouth sores. Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are common and appear as small, shallow lesions inside the mouth, often with a white or yellowish center and a red border. They can form on the tongue, gums, inner cheeks, or lips. These sores are generally not contagious.
Cold sores, or fever blisters, are another common type of oral lesion caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). These are typically small, fluid-filled blisters that appear on or around the lips, though they can sometimes form inside the mouth. Cold sores often begin with a tingling or itching sensation before the blisters emerge and are highly contagious.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
While many mouth sores resolve on their own, certain signs warrant consulting a healthcare professional. Seek medical advice if a mouth sore has not healed after two weeks or if symptoms worsen. Persistent or frequently recurring mouth sores should also prompt a visit to a doctor.
Consult a healthcare provider if mouth sores are accompanied by severe pain that makes eating or drinking difficult, or if there are signs of infection such as fever. These situations may indicate a need for specific medical treatment or further investigation into an underlying condition.
Relieving Mouth Sore Discomfort
Managing mouth sores at home involves several practical strategies. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help reduce pain and promote healing. A baking soda rinse, made by dissolving a teaspoon of baking soda in half a cup of water, can also provide relief.
Over-the-counter topical anesthetics containing ingredients like benzocaine can temporarily numb the affected area, reducing pain. Avoiding irritating foods, such as hot, spicy, acidic, or highly salty items, can prevent further discomfort. Maintaining good oral hygiene with a soft-bristled toothbrush can also support healing without irritation.