The Symptoms of Aphthae

Catarrh of the mouth; small white spots with red border on mucous membrane; great increase of saliva; fetid breath.

This affection is often called ulcerated sore mouth and thrush, but differs from both. When it occurs in a severe form, as it often does in young children, it is usually preceded by a slight fever and restlessness for several days, loss of appetite, and symptoms of catarrh of the mouth. When the other symptoms mentioned appear, there is considerable pain, and the patient, if an infant, finds difficulty in nursing in consequence.

The Causes of Aphthae

The disease is most frequent in infants, the chief causes being cutting of teeth and disturbances of digestion. Aphthae also occurs in measles and canker sore mouth. Adults often suffer with the disease in a mild form in consequence of disturbances of digestion.

The Treatment of Aphthae

The mouth should be washed three or four times a day with a saturated solution of chlorate of potash. In addition to removal of the exciting causes, this is the only remedy required in most cases. If not successful, touch the white spots with strong solution of nitrate of silver by means of a camel's-hair brush.