Symptom 5: Fever and Fatigue
When one thinks of mouth ulcers, the immediate association isn’t typically fever or fatigue. Yet, in the context of aphthous stomatitis, these systemic symptoms are intertwined. The presence of these ulcers can send ripples across the body, culminating in a low-grade fever, indicating that the body is in active combat mode.
But why fever? Fever is the body’s thermostat in action. When faced with potential threats, the internal temperature rises, attempting to create an inhospitable environment for pathogens. While aphthous ulcers aren’t spawned by infectious agents, the body’s defense mechanisms don’t take chances. The elevated temperature is a sign that the body is on high alert.
Then there’s the fatigue – a deep-seated exhaustion that permeates every action and thought. It’s not merely the byproduct of sleep deprivation or physical exertion. It’s the culmination of the body’s resources being diverted to manage and combat the ulcers. Every ounce of energy is prioritized, leading to this profound sense of weariness. (5)
