[22M] Experiencing canker sores and lower back pain

What might be happening

Based on the information you've provided, possible conditions include:

• Canker Sores: These are small, shallow lesions that develop on the soft tissues in your mouth or at the base of your gums. They can be painful, especially when you swallow. They are not contagious and usually go away on their own within one to two weeks.

  • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter topical products, mouth rinses, and pain medications. If canker sores are large, persistent, or unusually painful, a doctor may prescribe a stronger medication.

• Lower Back Pain: This is a common condition and can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle or ligament strain, bulging or ruptured disks, arthritis, skeletal irregularities, or osteoporosis. Given your age and the nature of your pain, a muscle or ligament strain is most likely.

  • Treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, pain relievers, and in some cases, surgery.

• Shortness of Breath: This could be related to your history of asthma, but it's unusual that it's happening more at rest. Other potential causes include anxiety, anemia, or heart conditions.

  • Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or in some cases, surgery.

What you can do

1. For your canker sores, try over-the-counter topical products and mouth rinses. Avoid spicy or acidic foods that can irritate the sores.
2. For your lower back pain, rest and avoid activities that make the pain worse. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also help.
3. For your shortness of breath, try to identify any triggers and avoid them. If it's related to your asthma, you may need to use an inhaler or other medication.

What you should look out for

If any of the following occur, you should seek medical attention immediately:

• Your canker sores are large, persistent, or unusually painful.
• Your lower back pain is severe, doesn't improve with rest, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, unexplained weight loss, or problems with bowel or bladder function.
• Your shortness of breath is severe, comes on suddenly, or is accompanied by chest pain, fainting, nausea, or a rapid or irregular heartbeat.

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I'm not a doctor and this advice should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.