Recurrent Oral Ulcers, What could be the cause?

Dear Ask The Doctor: I am a 40 year aol women. I have suffered severley with aphthous ulcers over the years. The mouth ulcers take a long time to heal as well as everyday minor abrassions and cuts which tend to get infected very quickly. Could this be a form of candida or something to do with my blood or bloodflow?

Dear Meeghan: Apthous ulcers may be caused due to dietary deficiency (iron, folic, B12, zinc), gastro-intestinal problems (chrons, ulcerative colitis), immune disease, stress, taruma and infections. You may have to see a doctor who may advise a complete blood workup, vitamin B12 levels, iron studies, or biopsy from the ulcer to rule out a tumor.

The treatment options usually depend on treating the underlying cause. Oral anesthetics, antibiotics and corticosteroid creams are helpful in treating infected ulcers.