Is Mouth Ulcer After Painkillers a Sign of Drug Allergy?

Is the onset of mouth ulcers after taking painkillers a sign of a drug allergy?

On August 30, I underwent a tonsillectomy and was discharged on August 31.
After the surgery, I continued taking the pain medication (Ponstal) manufactured by Hsin Kuei Pharmaceutical from August 30 to September 2.
The medication packaging indicates that there is a possibility of rare oral and throat ulcers, and I should return to the hospital if I experience any symptoms.
Starting September 2, I developed sores in my mouth and my tongue feels like it has a sore as well.
Since it is a holiday and my attending physician is unavailable for an emergency visit, should I stop taking the medication? I plan to return for a follow-up appointment next Tuesday.
I would like to ask the doctor if it is necessary to discontinue the medication or if this condition is normal after surgery.

33, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/09/03

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you have not had an allergy to this type of pain medication before and the ulcer is not a widespread oral invasion, it is likely a condition that may occur postoperatively.
However, if the symptoms persist and worsen, it is advisable to discontinue the medication and return for a follow-up.
Wishing you a speedy recovery.

Reply Date: 2021/09/03

More Info

Mouth ulcers following the use of painkillers can indeed be a cause for concern, and they may indicate a potential drug allergy or a side effect of the medication. In your case, you mentioned taking Ponstal (a pain relief medication) after your tonsillectomy, and you are experiencing mouth ulcers and discomfort in your tongue. It is important to understand the context of your symptoms and the medication you are taking.

Pain medications, particularly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Ponstal, can sometimes lead to gastrointestinal side effects, including mucosal irritation, which may manifest as mouth ulcers or sore throat. The packaging of your medication indicates that oral and throat ulcers are rare but possible side effects. This aligns with your experience of developing ulcers after starting the medication.

Given that you have undergone a surgical procedure, it is not uncommon to experience some discomfort and complications during the recovery phase. However, the appearance of mouth ulcers is not typically considered a normal postoperative symptom. It is crucial to differentiate between a normal healing process and a potential adverse reaction to the medication.

If you are experiencing significant pain, difficulty swallowing, or if the ulcers are worsening, it would be prudent to stop taking the medication and consult with your healthcare provider as soon as possible. Since you mentioned that your doctor is unavailable until next week, you might consider reaching out to another healthcare professional or an urgent care facility for advice. It is essential to prioritize your health and ensure that any potential allergic reaction or severe side effect is addressed promptly.

In the meantime, you can manage the discomfort associated with mouth ulcers by maintaining good oral hygiene, using saltwater rinses, and avoiding spicy or acidic foods that may exacerbate the pain. Over-the-counter topical treatments may also provide relief for the ulcers.

In summary, while mouth ulcers can occur as a side effect of painkillers, they should not be ignored, especially following surgery. It is advisable to stop the medication and seek medical advice to ensure that your symptoms are appropriately evaluated and managed. Your health and recovery are paramount, and addressing these concerns with a healthcare professional will help ensure a smoother recovery process.

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