It’s very common for people with the HIV virus to have oral problems because they live with a weakened immune system. Medications to treat HIV and AIDS have helped, but more than a third of people living with HIV still deal with oral problems.
If you have HIV, you may think oral conditions are the least of your worries. However, they can cause discomfort, embarrassment and make it difficult for you to eat. Some of the common oral problems associated with HIV include:
Canker sores: Red sores that are usually located on the tongue or inside lips. These can be treated with an over-the-counter cream or wash that contains corticosteroids or a corticosteroid prescription.
Herpes infection: Red sores located on the roof of the mouth, or on the outside of the lips. A prescription can reduce the time it takes for the infection to heal and the frequency of the outbreaks.
Hairy Leukoplakia (Loo-ko-PLAY-key-uh): White patches that are sometimes thick and “hairlike” located on the side of the tongue or the lower lip. Severe cases can be treated with a prescription.
Candidiasis (CAN-di-dye-uh-sis), a fungal or yeast infection also known as thrush: White or yellowish patches that can be anywhere in the mouth. This infection can be treated with an over-the-counter anti-fungal lozenge or a prescription.
If you have any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor. There are treatments to available to help rid you of pain and discomfort. Go here to learn more.