=Etiology.=—Most common in infants and children. Hot and irritating
substances; secondary to diseases of the stomach, to measles, scarlet
fever and variola; difficult dentition; alcoholic or tobacco excesses.
Hazzard says in all cases of stomatitis “there is generally lesion to
the bony or other tissues in the cervical region (sometimes also in the
upper dorsal), which deranges vasomotor control of the tissues of the
mouth and tongue, obstructs venous return, weakens the tissues and lays
them liable to the effects of some particular irritant, local or in the
system, but there is, generally, lesion affecting the gastro-intestinal
tract which is the real underlying cause of the trouble.”
=Symptoms.=—Diffuse, red swelling of the mucous membrane, heat and pain
in the mouth, increased flow of saliva, fetor of breath, restlessness
and languor. In children there is a disinclination to nurse and a
slight fever may be present. The sense of taste is blunted and there is
commonly a bitter taste in the mouth. The neck glands are enlarged.
=Treatment.=—Removal of the exciting cause is the most important point
in the treatment. Good hygienic conditions must be enforced. The
mouth should be kept clean. Wipe it out at frequent intervals with a
soft piece of absorbent cotton and cold water. A borax solution is
frequently used. Attention should be paid to the diet and secretions.
Light but thorough treatment of the upper cervical region is to be
given, with careful attention to the tissues about and below the
angles of the jaw, so that the innervation, blood and lymphatic supply
may be equalized.