A canker sore can be one of the most annoying and painful health nuisances.
And if you are someone who suffers from them, you are certainly not alone. According to Canker Clear, "At least 20 percent of the population have canker sores at any one time."
But as with many health conditions, canker sores can be extremely frustrating. After all, they seem to be entirely out of our control.
However, when I spotted this exclusive list of canker-fighting home remedies, I realized that I may just have a whole lot more control than I thought.
Just like there are easy ways to fight varicose veins at home, there are just as many ways to battle painful canker sores.
Part of battling these sores involves recognizing exactly what might be causing them. But there are also simple and effective steps you can take to fight canker sores once you have them. I will absolutely be trying these out!
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Scroll through below to see how to get rid of painful canker sores for good. I'm so glad I know this now!
Will you be trying out these canker-fighting methods? Let us know in the comments.
What Is a Canker Sore?
According to WebMD, "Canker sores are small, shallow ulcers that appear in the mouth and often make eating and talking uncomfortable."
But these painful sores don't have to ruin your day or your week.
Scroll through below to see what might be causing your canker sores and how you can battle them right at home!
What Might Be Causing Your Canker Sores Cause #1: Citrus Fruits
As a person who gets canker sores, you have probably noticed that overly acidic fruits and foods can often cause them to burn even more.
According to WebMD, "Certain foods — including citrus or acidic fruits and vegetables (such as lemons, oranges, pineapples, figs, tomatoes, and strawberries) — can trigger a canker sore or make the problem worse."
Cutting back on these foods can make a world of difference if you are a frequent canker sore sufferer.
Cause #2: Stress
High stress levels can often be the cause of canker sores as well.
According to eMedicineHealth.com, "A number of factors have been suggested to precipitate outbreaks in susceptible individuals," including "anxiety or stress."
If you are particularly stressed-out at home or at work, you may notice an increased frequency in these painful mouth sores.
Cause #3: Biting Your Lip
We all know that biting our lip or cheek can be painful. But this trauma can also be the cause of a canker sore.
According to the Mayo Clinic, "Possible triggers for canker sores include a minor injury to your mouth from dental work, overzealous brushing, sports mishaps, or an accidental cheek bite."
While no one ever wants to bite their cheek, take extra care when eating to avoid these mouth traumas whenever possible.
Cause #4: Spicy Foods
Many people love to use hot sauce or hot peppers to add some kick to their favorite dishes.
However, according to Medicine Net, "spicy foods" can definitely be one of the causes of frequent canker sores.
If you are someone who is susceptible to these sores, try to avoid adding too much spice to your food. As with all things, moderation is key.
Cause #5: Smoking
There are a million reasons for a person to stop smoking. However, if you are someone who is currently trying to quit, you may notice an increase in canker sores.
According to Frey Smiles, "Some patients have also reported the onset of oral ulcers after they stop smoking."
This definitely shouldn't deter you from quitting. But it may just explain the sudden appearance of canker sores.
Keep scrolling below for ways to rid yourself of painful canker sores.
Ways to Fight Canker Sores Remedy #1: Put a Tea Bag On It
Soaking a chamomile tea bag in water and placing it directly on the sore for five to 10 minutes can help you get rid of your canker sores much more quickly.
According to Everyday Roots, chemicals in chamomile have "been shown to reduce inflammation and also have antiseptic properties. Both of these properties will help reduce the pain of canker sores and potentially help speed the healing process."
Remedy #2: Dab On Some Honey
Placing raw honey directly on your canker sore can do wonders to sooth the pain and coat the sore.
According to Everyday Roots, "With its antibacterial, and potentially anti-inflammatory, properties, raw organic honey makes a wonderfully soothing coating for a painful canker sore."
Remedy #3: Swish with Saltwater
Saltwater can be a great way to help canker sores to clear up or heal faster.
According to Empowher.com, "Mix 1 tsp. of salt into 1 cup of warm water (1/2 tsp. of baking soda may also be added). Swish for 30 seconds, then spit."
Remedy #4: Break Open Some Aloe
If you have an aloe plant at home, break it open. Simply mix aloe with some water and swish it around in your mouth.
According to Everyday Roots, "The gel from this magnificent plant wields mighty powers when it comes to soothing not just sunburn, but canker sores as well. Make sure you use natural gel — not the green kind."
Remedy #5: Switch Your Toothpaste
It might sound crazy, but certain ingredients in your toothpaste can cause canker sores. It could just be time to switch it up.
Dr. Andrew Weil writes, "Switch to a toothpaste that does not contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), a foaming agent that may contribute to recurrences."
Remedy #6: Rinse with Benadryl
Benadryl mixed with milk of magnesia is a great way to battle canker sores.
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Rinse your mouth with a mixture of half Milk of Magnesia and half Benadryl liquid allergy medicine. Swish [the] mixture in the mouth for about one minute, then spit [it] out."
Remedy #7: Pop a Rolaid
Chewing on a Rolaid, Tums, or Pepto-Bismol — or placing it on the canker sore — can do absolute wonders.
According to Reader's Digest, "The pain you feel from a canker sore is caused by acids and digestive enzymes eating into the tissue in the sore. The tablets will neutralize the acids and may also speed healing."
Remedy #8: Eat Yogurt
Yogurt can contain cultures that are great at fighting canker sores.
According to Reader's Digest, "Eat yogurt that contains live acidophilus cultures (check the label). Have a few teaspoonfuls daily for prevention — more when you're having a breakout."
Canker sore pain doesn't have to ruin your day or your week. Cutting out canker-causing habits and trying these home remedies can make a world of difference.
Will you be trying these canker-fighting tips at home? What other tips and tricks do you try to fight canker sores? Let us know in the comments.
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*Disclaimer: The advice on LittleThings.com is not a substitute for consultation with a medical professional or treatment for a specific condition. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem without consulting a qualified professional. Please contact your health-care provider with questions and concerns.