(1) Acute Stomatitis

This is a disease of the mouth--the commonest disease of this organ. It may be caused by gum-chewing, or by eating anything that is pungent or irritating. Mustard may bring it on. Where these sores appear in the mouth frequently, it shows a run-down state of the system, and it always points to more or less derangment of the digestion. The irritation may be confined to the gums; in fact, any part of the mouth, including the tongue, may be affected. First there is redness. Where the irritation extends over a considerable surface, the tongue, gums, or cheeks may be swollen. If the tongue is swollen, the prints of the teeth will be seen on the side. An acid state of the stomach is more inclined to favor the development of this disease than any other cause. The acid referred to is not the normal hydrochloric acid of the stomach; it is the acid of fermentation, always indicating an excessive intake of food, particularly carbohydrates.

Treatment

Change the style of eating: Eat more fruit and vegetables, less starch--especially white bread--and see to it that the bowels move regularly every day. Those who so desire may use a little chlorate of potash water as a wash for the mouth; but washes and medication generally are not necessary. Remove the cause--improper eating.