Lichen Planus: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Introduction

Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the mucous membranes inside the mouth. First identified in the 19th century, it is part of a broader group of conditions known as lichen planus, which can also impact the skin, nails, and other mucous membranes. Although the exact cause of oral lichen planus remains uncertain, it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly targets tissues in the mouth. This article provides a thorough overview of oral lichen planus, including its risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatment options, and self-care strategies. By understanding these aspects, patients can work closely with healthcare providers to manage the condition effectively and enhance their quality of life.

What is Oral Lichen Planus?

Oral lichen planus is a long-term inflammatory condition of the mouth that can lead to pain, discomfort, and other symptoms. This article will delve into its risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tests, medications, procedures, and home remedies to help manage the condition.

Understanding Oral Lichen Planus

Oral lichen planus primarily affects the mucous membranes inside the mouth, including the inner cheeks, gums, tongue, and occasionally the lips. It is characterized by white, lacy patches, red swollen tissues, or open sores that can cause discomfort or pain. The condition is chronic, meaning it can persist for months or even years, with periods of flare-ups and remission. While oral lichen planus is not contagious, it can significantly affect a person’s quality of life due to the pain and difficulty it may cause with eating, drinking, and speaking.

The progression of oral lichen planus varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms that are manageable with minimal treatment, while others may have more severe symptoms requiring ongoing medical care. In certain cases, oral lichen planus can increase the risk of developing oral cancer, making regular monitoring by a healthcare provider essential.

Oral lichen planus is relatively uncommon, affecting about 1-2% of the population. It is more frequently seen in middle-aged adults, particularly women. Although it can occur at any age, it is rare in children. The condition is often associated with other autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, further suggesting a link to the immune system.

Risk Factors for Oral Lichen Planus

Lifestyle Risk Factors

While the exact cause of oral lichen planus is not fully understood, certain lifestyle factors may increase the risk of developing the condition. Smoking and the use of tobacco products have been associated with a higher incidence of oral lichen planus. Tobacco can irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth, potentially triggering or worsening the condition. Additionally, excessive alcohol consumption may also contribute to the development of oral lichen planus, as alcohol can dry out and irritate the tissues in the mouth.

Stress is another lifestyle factor that may play a role in the onset or exacerbation of oral lichen planus. Emotional or physical stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to autoimmune reactions. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques, may help reduce the risk of flare-ups.

Medical Risk Factors

Several medical conditions and factors can increase the likelihood of developing oral lichen planus. Individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or Sjögren’s syndrome, are at a higher risk. These conditions involve the immune system attacking the body’s own tissues, which may also occur in the case of oral lichen planus.

Allergies to certain dental materials, such as amalgam fillings, have been linked to oral lichen planus in some cases. Additionally, certain medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), beta-blockers, and oral hypoglycemic agents, have been associated with triggering or worsening the condition. If you are taking any of these medications and develop symptoms of oral lichen planus, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Genetic and Age-Related Risk Factors

Genetics may also play a role in the development of oral lichen planus. While the condition is not directly inherited, a family history of autoimmune diseases may increase the likelihood of developing oral lichen planus. This suggests that there may be a genetic predisposition to autoimmune disorders, including oral lichen planus.

Age is another important factor to consider. Oral lichen planus is most commonly diagnosed in individuals between the ages of 30 and 60, with a higher prevalence in women than men. Hormonal changes, particularly in postmenopausal women, may contribute to the development of the condition. Although rare, oral lichen planus can also occur in younger individuals, but it is much less common in children.

Symptoms of Oral Lichen Planus

White Patches

White patches, also known as reticular lesions, are one of the most common manifestations of oral lichen planus, occurring in approximately 85% of patients. These patches typically appear as lace-like, raised white lines or streaks on the inside of the cheeks, gums, or tongue. The white patches are caused by an overactive immune response, where the body’s immune cells mistakenly attack the mucous membranes in the mouth, leading to inflammation and the formation of these characteristic lesions. While these patches are usually painless, they can sometimes be accompanied by other symptoms like burning or discomfort, especially when irritated by certain foods or oral hygiene products.

Burning Sensation

A burning sensation in the mouth is reported by about 40-60% of patients with oral lichen planus. This symptom is often worsened by eating spicy or acidic foods, which can irritate the inflamed tissues. The burning sensation is caused by the immune system’s attack on the mucous membranes, leading to inflammation and damage to the surface tissues. This symptom can be particularly distressing for patients, as it may interfere with their ability to eat or speak comfortably. The burning sensation may be more pronounced in patients with erosive or atrophic forms of oral lichen planus, where the lesions are more severe.

Pain

Pain is a common symptom in oral lichen planus, affecting around 30-50% of patients. The pain is usually localized to areas where erosive or ulcerative lesions are present. These lesions occur when the top layer of the mucous membrane breaks down, exposing the sensitive underlying tissues. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, depending on the extent of the lesions. In some cases, the pain may be constant, while in others, it may only occur when the affected areas are irritated by food, drink, or oral hygiene products.

Ulcers

Ulcers, or open sores, are seen in approximately 25-40% of oral lichen planus cases. These ulcers are typically shallow but can be quite painful, especially when they come into contact with food or drink. Ulcers form when the immune system’s attack on the mucous membranes causes the outer layer of tissue to break down, leaving the underlying tissue exposed. These ulcers can take a long time to heal and may recur frequently, making them a persistent problem for many patients. In severe cases, ulcers can lead to secondary infections, further complicating the condition.

Redness

Redness, or erythema, is a common feature of oral lichen planus, occurring in about 50-70% of patients. The redness is caused by inflammation of the mucous membranes, which leads to increased blood flow to the affected areas. This symptom is often seen in conjunction with other manifestations, such as white patches or ulcers. The redness can be localized to specific areas, such as the gums or the inside of the cheeks, or it can be more widespread, affecting multiple areas of the mouth. In some cases, the redness may be accompanied by swelling or tenderness.

Swelling

Swelling, or edema, is less common in oral lichen planus, affecting around 10-20% of patients. When it does occur, it is usually a result of severe inflammation in the affected areas. The swelling can cause discomfort and may make it difficult for patients to eat or speak. In some cases, the swelling may be accompanied by pain or a burning sensation. Swelling is more likely to occur in patients with erosive or ulcerative forms of the disease, where the inflammation is more pronounced.

Sensitivity to Spicy Foods

Sensitivity to spicy foods is a frequent complaint among patients with oral lichen planus, affecting about 60-70% of individuals. This sensitivity is due to the inflammation and damage to the mucous membranes, which makes the tissues more vulnerable to irritation from spicy or acidic foods. Patients may experience a burning or stinging sensation when consuming these types of foods, which can significantly impact their quality of life. Avoiding spicy and acidic foods is often recommended to help manage this symptom.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, affects approximately 30-40% of patients with oral lichen planus. This symptom occurs when the salivary glands are affected by the inflammatory process, leading to reduced saliva production. Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by keeping the mouth moist, neutralizing acids, and helping to prevent infections. A lack of saliva can lead to discomfort, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of dental problems, such as cavities and gum disease. Patients with dry mouth may also experience a persistent feeling of thirst or a sticky sensation in the mouth.

Lesions

Lesions are a hallmark of oral lichen planus, occurring in nearly 100% of patients. These lesions can take various forms, including white patches, red areas, and ulcers. The lesions are caused by the immune system’s attack on the mucous membranes, leading to inflammation and damage to the tissues. The appearance and severity of the lesions can vary from patient to patient, with some individuals experiencing only mild, asymptomatic lesions, while others may have more severe, painful lesions. The lesions can occur anywhere in the mouth, but they are most commonly found on the inside of the cheeks, gums, and tongue.

Difficulty Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, or dysphagia, is a less common symptom of oral lichen planus, affecting around 10-15% of patients. This symptom is usually seen in more severe cases, where the lesions extend into the throat or esophagus. The inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes can make it painful or difficult to swallow, especially when eating certain foods. In some cases, patients may also experience a sensation of something being stuck in their throat. Difficulty swallowing can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies if it interferes with the patient’s ability to eat properly.

Diagnostic Evaluation of Oral Lichen Planus

The diagnosis of oral lichen planus is typically made based on a combination of clinical examination, patient history, and diagnostic tests. During the clinical examination, a healthcare provider will carefully inspect the mouth for characteristic lesions, such as white patches, ulcers, and redness. They will also ask about the patient’s symptoms, including pain, burning, and sensitivity to certain foods. However, because oral lichen planus can resemble other conditions, such as candidiasis or leukoplakia, additional tests are often needed to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include a biopsy, histopathological analysis, direct immunofluorescence, and other laboratory tests.

Biopsy

A biopsy is a procedure in which a small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area of the mouth for further examination. This test is essential for diagnosing oral lichen planus because it allows healthcare providers to examine the tissue under a microscope and look for specific changes that are characteristic of the condition. The biopsy is usually performed under local anesthesia, and the tissue sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Test Information

The biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue from the lesion, usually using a scalpel or punch tool. The procedure is relatively quick and is typically done in a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic. The tissue sample is then preserved and sent to a pathology lab, where it is examined under a microscope. The pathologist will look for specific features, such as inflammation, degeneration of the basal cell layer, and the presence of a band-like infiltrate of lymphocytes, which are immune cells. These findings are indicative of oral lichen planus and help differentiate it from other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

Results that Indicate Oral Lichen Planus

If the biopsy results show the characteristic features of oral lichen planus, such as the presence of a band-like infiltrate of lymphocytes and degeneration of the basal cell layer, a diagnosis of oral lichen planus is confirmed. The presence of these features indicates that the immune system is attacking the mucous membranes in the mouth, leading to the symptoms of the condition. If the biopsy results are inconclusive or do not show these characteristic features, additional tests may be needed to rule out other conditions, such as oral cancer or autoimmune diseases. In some cases, a repeat biopsy may be necessary if the initial sample was too small or did not include the affected area.

Histopathological Analysis

Histopathological analysis is the microscopic examination of the biopsy tissue to identify specific cellular changes associated with oral lichen planus. This test is crucial for confirming the diagnosis, as it allows healthcare providers to see the exact nature of the tissue damage and inflammation. The analysis is performed by a pathologist, who will look for the characteristic features of oral lichen planus, such as degeneration of the basal cell layer and the presence of immune cells in the tissue.

Test Information

During histopathological analysis, the biopsy tissue is processed and stained to highlight different cellular components. The pathologist will then examine the tissue under a microscope, looking for specific changes that are characteristic of oral lichen planus. These changes include the degeneration of the basal cell layer, which is the layer of cells at the base of the mucous membrane, and the presence of a band-like infiltrate of lymphocytes, which are immune cells that attack the mucous membranes. The pathologist will also look for signs of inflammation and tissue damage, which are common in oral lichen planus.

Results that Indicate Oral Lichen Planus

If the histopathological analysis shows the characteristic features of oral lichen planus, such as basal cell degeneration and lymphocyte infiltration, a diagnosis of oral lichen planus is confirmed. These findings indicate that the immune system is attacking the mucous membranes, leading to the symptoms of the condition. If the histopathological analysis does not show these features, other conditions, such as oral cancer or autoimmune diseases, may need to be considered. In some cases, additional tests, such as direct immunofluorescence, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Direct Immunofluorescence

Direct immunofluorescence is a specialized test that is used to detect the presence of specific immune proteins, called antibodies, in the tissue. This test is often used when the diagnosis of oral lichen planus is unclear or when other autoimmune conditions are suspected. Direct immunofluorescence can help differentiate oral lichen planus from other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as pemphigus or mucous membrane pemphigoid.

Test Information

During direct immunofluorescence, a small sample of tissue is taken from the affected area, similar to a biopsy. The tissue is then treated with fluorescent dyes that bind to specific antibodies in the tissue. Under a special microscope, the pathologist can see whether these antibodies are present and where they are located in the tissue. In oral lichen planus, the antibodies are usually found in a specific pattern along the basement membrane, which is the layer of tissue that separates the mucous membrane from the underlying tissues.

Results that Indicate Oral Lichen Planus

If direct immunofluorescence shows the presence of antibodies in a linear pattern along the basement membrane, this is consistent with a diagnosis of oral lichen planus. This finding indicates that the immune system is attacking the mucous membranes, leading to the symptoms of the condition. If the test does not show this pattern, other conditions, such as pemphigus or mucous membrane pemphigoid, may need to be considered. In some cases, additional tests, such as blood tests or patch testing, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What if All Tests are Negative but Symptoms Persist?

If all diagnostic tests come back negative but symptoms of oral lichen planus persist, it is important to continue working with your healthcare provider to explore other potential causes of your symptoms. Conditions such as oral candidiasis, leukoplakia, or autoimmune diseases can cause similar symptoms and may need to be ruled out. In some cases, a repeat biopsy or additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. It is also important to manage your symptoms with appropriate treatments, such as topical corticosteroids or other medications, even if the exact cause of your symptoms is not yet clear.

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Health Conditions with Similar Symptoms to Oral Lichen Planus

Lichen Simplex Chronicus

Lichen simplex chronicus is a skin condition caused by chronic scratching or rubbing, leading to thickened, leathery patches that are often itchy. It can appear anywhere on the body but is most common on the neck, scalp, arms, and legs. This condition is not contagious and is often linked to other skin issues like eczema.

How to Know if You Might Have Lichen Simplex Chronicus vs Oral Lichen Planus

While both lichen simplex chronicus and oral lichen planus involve chronic inflammation, they affect different areas. Lichen simplex chronicus primarily impacts the skin, whereas oral lichen planus affects the mouth’s mucous membranes. If you have thickened, itchy skin patches, especially in areas you frequently scratch, you may have lichen simplex chronicus. Oral lichen planus typically presents with white, lacy patches or red, swollen areas inside the mouth, causing discomfort or pain, especially when eating or drinking.

A key difference is that oral lichen planus does not cause itching, while itching is a hallmark of lichen simplex chronicus. A skin biopsy can differentiate the two. In lichen simplex chronicus, the biopsy shows thickened skin and increased keratinocytes, while in oral lichen planus, it reveals inflammation and mucous membrane damage.

Oral Candidiasis

Oral candidiasis, or oral thrush, is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast overgrowth in the mouth. It commonly affects individuals with weakened immune systems, those on antibiotics, or people with diabetes. Symptoms include white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, and sometimes the roof of the mouth, gums, or tonsils. These patches can be painful and may bleed when scraped.

How to Know if You Might Have Oral Candidiasis vs Oral Lichen Planus

Both oral candidiasis and oral lichen planus can cause white patches in the mouth, but there are key differences. Oral candidiasis patches are often “cottage cheese-like” and can be wiped off, revealing red, raw areas underneath. In contrast, oral lichen planus patches are lacy and cannot be easily wiped away.

Oral candidiasis is more likely to cause a burning sensation, especially when eating spicy or acidic foods, while oral lichen planus may cause discomfort but is less likely to cause burning. A healthcare provider can take a swab to test for Candida yeast. If positive, it suggests oral candidiasis, which is treatable with antifungal medications, unlike oral lichen planus, which requires corticosteroids or other treatments.

Pemphigus Vulgaris

Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare autoimmune disorder that causes painful blisters and sores on the skin and mucous membranes, including the mouth. The immune system mistakenly attacks the proteins that hold skin cells together, leading to blister formation. These blisters rupture easily, leaving raw, open sores prone to infection.

How to Know if You Might Have Pemphigus Vulgaris vs Oral Lichen Planus

Both pemphigus vulgaris and oral lichen planus can cause mouth sores, but the sores differ in appearance and behavior. Pemphigus vulgaris sores are large, painful blisters that rupture easily, while oral lichen planus typically presents with smaller, white, lacy patches or red, swollen areas. Though oral lichen planus can cause ulcers, they are usually not as large or easily ruptured as those in pemphigus vulgaris.

A biopsy can distinguish between the two. In pemphigus vulgaris, the biopsy shows a loss of adhesion between skin cells (acantholysis), while in oral lichen planus, it shows inflammation and mucous membrane damage. Blood tests for antibodies like desmoglein can also help diagnose pemphigus vulgaris.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a condition where thick, white patches form inside the mouth. These patches cannot be scraped off and are often caused by chronic irritation, such as smoking or alcohol use. While usually benign, leukoplakia can sometimes be a precursor to oral cancer, so monitoring any changes is crucial.

How to Know if You Might Have Leukoplakia vs Oral Lichen Planus

Both leukoplakia and oral lichen planus can cause white patches in the mouth, but leukoplakia patches are usually thicker and more well-defined than the lacy, web-like patches seen in oral lichen planus. Leukoplakia is also less likely to cause pain, while oral lichen planus can cause soreness, especially when eating or drinking.

A biopsy is often needed to differentiate between leukoplakia and oral lichen planus. Leukoplakia may show abnormal cell growth, sometimes indicating precancerous changes, while oral lichen planus shows inflammation and mucous membrane damage without abnormal cell growth. If you have leukoplakia, regular monitoring is recommended to prevent cancer development.

Herpes Simplex Virus Infection

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection can cause sores on the lips (cold sores) or inside the mouth. HSV-1 is the most common type affecting the mouth. The infection is highly contagious and spreads through direct contact with sores or saliva. The sores are painful and can recur periodically.

How to Know if You Might Have Herpes Simplex Virus Infection vs Oral Lichen Planus

Both herpes simplex virus infection and oral lichen planus can cause mouth sores, but herpes sores are small, fluid-filled blisters that rupture and form painful ulcers. These sores often appear in clusters and are preceded by a tingling or burning sensation. In contrast, oral lichen planus presents with white, lacy patches or red, swollen areas, and while it can cause ulcers, they are not fluid-filled or clustered.

A viral culture or PCR test can confirm herpes simplex virus, indicating a herpes infection rather than oral lichen planus. Herpes sores tend to heal within a few weeks, while oral lichen planus is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management.

Contact Stomatitis

Contact stomatitis is an allergic reaction that occurs when the mouth’s mucous membranes come into contact with an irritant, such as certain foods, dental materials, or oral hygiene products. This reaction causes redness, swelling, and sores, which usually resolve once the irritant is removed.

How to Know if You Might Have Contact Stomatitis vs Oral Lichen Planus

Both contact stomatitis and oral lichen planus can cause redness and sores in the mouth, but contact stomatitis is usually triggered by a specific irritant. If your symptoms started after using a new toothpaste, mouthwash, or dental material, or after eating certain foods, you may have contact stomatitis. Oral lichen planus is not caused by an external irritant and tends to be chronic.

A patch test can identify the allergen causing contact stomatitis. Avoiding the allergen should resolve the symptoms. In contrast, oral lichen planus requires different treatments, such as corticosteroids, and avoiding irritants will not cure the condition.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple organs, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and heart. In some cases, SLE can cause mouth sores. Other common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, and a butterfly-shaped rash across the cheeks and nose.

How to Know if You Might Have Systemic Lupus Erythematosus vs Oral Lichen Planus

Both SLE and oral lichen planus can cause mouth sores, but SLE is a systemic disease affecting multiple organs, while oral lichen planus is limited to the mucous membranes. If you have other symptoms like joint pain, fatigue, or a rash, you may have SLE rather than oral lichen planus. Additionally, SLE mouth sores are usually shallow ulcers, while oral lichen planus often presents with white, lacy patches or red, swollen areas.

Blood tests can help diagnose SLE. If you have SLE, your blood tests may show antibodies like anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) or anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-dsDNA). These antibodies are not present in oral lichen planus, so a positive result would suggest SLE.

Treatment Options

Medications

Topical Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory medications applied directly to the affected areas in the mouth. They help reduce inflammation, swelling, and discomfort caused by oral lichen planus.

These medications are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate cases. They are applied as a gel or ointment to the lesions, usually several times a day. Topical corticosteroids are preferred for localized symptoms because they minimize systemic side effects.

Patients can expect symptom improvement within a few weeks of consistent use. However, long-term use may be necessary to prevent flare-ups.

Systemic Corticosteroids

Systemic corticosteroids are oral or injectable medications that reduce inflammation throughout the body. They are used when oral lichen planus is severe or widespread and topical treatments are insufficient.

Systemic corticosteroids are typically reserved for advanced cases or when the condition does not respond to topical treatments. They are prescribed for short periods to control acute flare-ups, as long-term use can lead to significant side effects.

Patients may experience rapid symptom relief, often within days, but the medication is usually tapered off after a few weeks to avoid side effects like weight gain, high blood pressure, and weakened immune function.

Tacrolimus

Tacrolimus is an immunosuppressive medication that reduces immune system activity, helping to control inflammation in oral lichen planus.

This medication is typically used when corticosteroids are ineffective or cannot be used long-term. It is applied topically to the affected areas in the mouth.

Patients may notice improvement within a few weeks, but full results may take longer. Tacrolimus is often used for long-term management to prevent recurrences.

Pimecrolimus

Pimecrolimus is another immunosuppressive medication similar to tacrolimus. It works by reducing the immune response that causes inflammation in oral lichen planus.

Like tacrolimus, pimecrolimus is used topically and is often prescribed when corticosteroids are ineffective or unsuitable for long-term use. It is applied directly to the lesions in the mouth.

Patients can expect gradual improvement, though it may take several weeks to see significant changes. Long-term use may be necessary to prevent flare-ups.

Clobetasol Propionate

Clobetasol propionate is a potent topical corticosteroid used to treat severe inflammation in oral lichen planus.

This medication is typically prescribed for short-term use when other topical corticosteroids have not been effective. It is applied directly to the lesions in the mouth.

Patients may experience rapid relief, but due to its potency, clobetasol is usually used for a limited time to avoid side effects like thinning of the skin or mucous membranes.

Hydroxychloroquine

Hydroxychloroquine is an oral medication that modulates the immune system and is commonly used to treat autoimmune conditions. It can help reduce inflammation in oral lichen planus.

This medication is typically used in more severe or persistent cases, especially when other treatments have not been effective. It is taken orally, usually once a day.

Patients may notice improvement over several weeks to months. Regular monitoring is required to check for potential side effects, including eye problems.

Methotrexate

Methotrexate is an immunosuppressive medication that reduces immune system activity, helping to control inflammation in oral lichen planus.

This medication is usually reserved for severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. It is taken orally or by injection, typically once a week.

Patients may see improvement within a few weeks, but full results may take several months. Regular blood tests are required to monitor for potential side effects, including liver damage.

Azathioprine

Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive medication that reduces immune system activity, helping to control inflammation in oral lichen planus.

This medication is typically used in severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. It is taken orally, usually once a day.

Patients may notice improvement over several weeks to months. Regular blood tests are required to monitor for potential side effects, including liver and bone marrow issues.

Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive medication that reduces immune system activity, helping to control inflammation in oral lichen planus.

This medication is typically used in severe cases that do not respond to other treatments. It can be taken orally or applied topically to the affected areas in the mouth.

Patients may notice improvement over several weeks to months. Regular monitoring is required to check for potential side effects, including kidney problems and high blood pressure.

Retinoids

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that help regulate cell growth and reduce inflammation. They can be used to treat oral lichen planus.

Retinoids are typically used in more severe cases or when other treatments have not been effective. They can be applied topically or taken orally, depending on the severity of the condition.

Patients may notice improvement over several weeks to months. However, retinoids can cause side effects like dry skin and mucous membranes, and they are not recommended for pregnant women.

Improving Oral Lichen Planus and Seeking Medical Help

In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies can help manage symptoms and improve oral health:

1. Avoid spicy foods, as they can irritate mouth lesions.
2. Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
3. Use a soft toothbrush to avoid further irritation.
4. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, as they can worsen symptoms.
5. Reduce stress, which can trigger flare-ups.
6. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
7. Use aloe vera or coconut oil to soothe irritated areas.
8. Consume probiotics to support immune health.

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical help. Telemedicine offers a convenient way to consult with healthcare providers from home. Our primary care practice can help manage symptoms, adjust treatment plans, and provide guidance on preventing flare-ups.

Living with Oral Lichen Planus: Tips for Better Quality of Life

Living with oral lichen planus can be challenging, but there are steps to improve your quality of life:

1. Follow your treatment plan as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
2. Make dietary adjustments to avoid foods that trigger symptoms.
3. Practice good oral hygiene to prevent infections and reduce irritation.
4. Manage stress through relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
5. Stay in regular contact with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and adjust treatments as needed.

By taking these steps, you can reduce the frequency and severity of flare-ups and maintain a better quality of life.

Conclusion

Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the mouth’s mucous membranes. While it can be uncomfortable and persistent, many treatment options are available to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to controlling the condition and improving your quality of life.

If you are experiencing symptoms of oral lichen planus, our telemedicine practice is here to help. Schedule a virtual consultation today to discuss your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.

James Kingsley

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