#asktheexpert hiii…. my baby is 7 months old and ulcer in his mouth.. what is the solution?

A. Mouth ulcers in a 7-month-old baby can be uncomfortable and might make feeding difficult. Here are some steps to help soothe and treat the ulcers: ### Home Care Tips 1. **Maintain Oral Hygiene:** - Gently clean your baby's mouth with a soft, damp cloth to keep it clean. 2. **Offer Soothing Foods:** - Soft, cold foods like yogurt, applesauce, and mashed bananas can be soothing. - Avoid acidic or salty foods that might irritate the ulcers. 3. **Hydration:** - Ensure your baby stays hydrated with breast milk, formula, or water (if recommended by your pediatrician). 4. **Breastfeeding or Bottle Feeding:** - Continue breastfeeding or bottle feeding, as these can provide comfort and nutrition. 5. **Teething Gel:** - If your pediatrician approves, you can apply a small amount of baby-safe teething gel to the ulcer to help numb the pain. 6. **Avoid Irritants:** - Avoid giving your baby foods that are spicy, acidic, or salty, as they can worsen the ulcers. ### When to See a Doctor - **Persistent Ulcers:** If the ulcers do not improve within a few days or worsen. - **Fever:** If your baby develops a fever along with the ulcers. - **Difficulty Feeding:** If the ulcers are causing significant feeding difficulties. - **Signs of Infection:** If there are signs of infection, such as swelling, pus, or increased redness. ### Medical Treatment - **Topical Medications:** Your doctor may prescribe a topical ointment or gel to apply to the ulcers. - **Pain Relief:** Over-the-counter pain relievers like infant acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be recommended to help manage pain (only use these under the guidance of your pediatrician). ### Preventive Measures - **Teething:** Ensure that teething toys are clean and free from sharp edges that could cause mouth injuries. - **Hand Hygiene:** Maintain good hand hygiene to prevent infections that could lead to mouth ulcers. - **Avoid Irritants:** Keep your baby's diet free from potential irritants that might cause mouth ulcers. Always consult with your pediatrician for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to your baby's specific condition.