Symptom 20. Mouth Ulcers: The Uncommon Oral Manifestation of Diverticulitis
While it may come as a surprise, mouth ulcers, also known as canker sores, can be a symptom associated with diverticulitis, although it’s not a common one. These small, shallow sores inside the mouth can cause a disproportionate amount of discomfort and pain, impacting routine activities like eating, drinking, and speaking.
The connection between diverticulitis and mouth ulcers lies in the body’s immune response. When your body is fighting an infection, as is the case with diverticulitis, it can sometimes respond in a generalized way, leading to inflammation in other parts of the body. This inflammation may manifest as mouth ulcers.
Mouth ulcers caused by diverticulitis can appear anywhere within the oral cavity, including the inside of the lips and cheeks, the base of the gums, or under the tongue. They’re usually round or oval and might have a white, yellow, or greyish center with a red border.
Although the exact reasons are not fully understood, stress and certain types of food can trigger the development of these ulcers. Spicy foods, acidic fruits, and crunchy snacks can irritate the ulcers, causing more pain.
It’s worth noting that mouth ulcers associated with diverticulitis are often temporary. They usually heal on their own within one to two weeks without leaving any scars. However, if they persist for more extended periods, it might be an indication of a more severe underlying condition. (20)
