Gastrointestinal Disorders
While canker sores are a common nuisance, certain underlying gastrointestinal disorders may increase your risk of developing these mouth ulcers. For example, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis are all associated with increased canker sores.
Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can cause various symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. People with Crohn’s disease may also develop canker sores during a flare-up. The exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they are thought to be linked to an underlying inflammation in the digestive tract. In some cases, canker sores may be the only symptom of Celiac disease. Again, the exact cause of canker sores is unknown, but they are thought to be linked to an autoimmune reaction. Regardless, canker sores tend to improve with a gluten-free diet.
Finally, canker sores are a common symptom of ulcerative colitis. This chronic inflammatory bowel disease can cause sores in any part of a person’s gastrointestinal tract, from the anus to the mouth. If you have a gastrointestinal disorder and frequently experience canker sores, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk.
