Dietary alterations in patients with oral vesiculoulcerative diseases.

OBJECTIVE

Patients with oral vesiculoulcerative diseases experience chronic oral discomfort, which may alter their dietary intake. The prevalence of dietary changes in these patients was investigated to determine the need for additional interventions.

STUDY

DESIGN

Forty-eight patients completed a diet and food continuous avoidance questionnaire. A visual analog scale (VAS) of 0 to 10 assessed symptoms. The study group (n = 25; VAS ≥ 2) and comparison group (n = 23; VAS = 0 or 1) were compared.

RESULTS

Fifty-two percent and 13% of study and comparison group patients, respectively, (P = .004) avoided citrus fruits and tomatoes, with a higher percentage of tongue involvement noted among these patients. Avoidance of hard, spicy, and sour foods and alcohol was higher in the study group.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with moderate chronic oral vesiculoulcerative diseases modify their eating habits, which may impair well-being. Professional guidance regarding maintenance of a balanced diet during periods of exacerbation may be beneficial.