blood blister in mouth causes

2 min read 17-03-2025

A blood blister in your mouth, also known as a traumatic oral hematoma, is a small, fluid-filled sac of blood that forms under the mucous membrane. It typically appears as a raised, red or purplish bump. While alarming in appearance, most blood blisters in the mouth are harmless and resolve on their own within a week or two. Understanding the causes can help you prevent them in the future.

Common Causes of Blood Blisters in the Mouth

Several factors can lead to the formation of a blood blister in your mouth. The most common include:

1. Trauma or Injury

Accidental Bites: Biting your cheek or lip is a frequent cause. The resulting injury disrupts blood vessels, leading to blood pooling under the surface.
Dental Work: Procedures like extractions or dental adjustments can sometimes cause minor trauma, resulting in a blood blister.
Ill-Fitting Dentures: Dentures that rub against the mouth's lining can create friction and irritation, resulting in a blood blister.
Sports Injuries: Contact sports may cause injury to the inside of the mouth.

2. Blistering Conditions

Aphthous Ulcers (Canker Sores): While not always filled with blood, some larger or deeper canker sores might appear as blood blisters initially. They're typically more painful than a simple blood blister.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): HSV can cause cold sores, which are blisters that may contain blood. These are usually found on the lips but can sometimes occur inside the mouth.

3. Underlying Medical Conditions

Rarely, blood blisters in the mouth can be associated with:

Blood Clotting Disorders: Individuals with conditions affecting blood clotting may experience more frequent or severe oral bleeding.
Leukemia: In some cases, leukemia can manifest as unusual bleeding.
Vitamin Deficiencies: Certain vitamin deficiencies can affect oral health and increase the risk of bleeding gums.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Identifying a blood blister is usually straightforward. Key symptoms include:

Raised, round bump: The blister appears as a swelling on the mucous membrane.
Red or purplish color: The color indicates the presence of blood.
Tenderness or pain: The area might be sensitive to touch.
Possible swelling: Surrounding tissues may swell.

When to See a Doctor

Most blood blisters heal on their own. However, seek medical attention if:

The blister is large or persistent.
You experience excessive bleeding.
You have other symptoms, such as fever or significant discomfort.
The blister doesn't heal within two weeks.
You have a history of bleeding disorders.

Treatment and Home Remedies

For minor blood blisters:

Gentle rinsing: Rinse your mouth with warm salt water several times a day to keep the area clean and promote healing.
Avoid irritating foods: Stay away from acidic or spicy foods that can worsen the discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling.

Important Note: Do not try to pop or puncture a blood blister. This can increase the risk of infection and prolong healing time.

Preventing Blood Blisters

To minimize the risk of developing blood blisters:

Avoid biting your cheeks or lips. Be mindful while eating and speaking.
Use mouthguards during sports. Protect your mouth from injury during physical activities.
Maintain good oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent infections that can lead to oral bleeding.
Ensure your dentures fit properly. See your dentist for adjustments if necessary.

This information is for general knowledge and doesn't substitute professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor or dentist for diagnosis and treatment of any oral health concern.