Palliative Care
Ulcers
Mouth ulcers
Deficiencies in folic acid, iron or vitamin B12 can cause ulcers because these are required in
protein synthesis, therefore levels should be corrected if found to be low. Other causes
involve cancer, infection, trauma and drug induced.
Treatment:
The following treatments are recommended but the selection of therapy depend on the
severity of pain and the frequency of ulcers experienced.
Corticosteroids
Topically applied corticosteroids include hydrocortisone lozenges and beclometasone spray or tablets. Hydrocortisone is useful if given before the appearance of the ulcer (prodromal phase). The latter beclometasone is more powerful and should only be used in circumstances where the ulcer is severe, covers a large area or in areas that are difficult to access.
Doxycycline
Mouthwash made with a 100mg capsule doxycycline dissolved in 10ml of
water can provide relief from recurrent apthous ulcers