8 Causes of a Mouth Ulcer

7. Gastrointestinal tract problems

Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, can not only cause problems in the intestines but in the mouth as well. During flare-ups, mouth ulcers may appear or may worsen. This can happen for many reasons. Firstly, there is a connection between the inflammatory disease and between the immune system. When the immune system is weak, you are more likely to develop mouth ulcers. Secondly, patients who suffer from gastrointestinal problems are often deficient in essential vitamins and minerals because of lack of appetite, limitations on foods, and poor nutrient absorption. Lastly, patients with inflammatory bowel diseases may experience dehydration due to diarrheal symptoms of their disease. Dehydration is a slippery medical slope which can lead to many other symptoms, including mouth ulcers.