Gum Bleeding: Causes and When to Seek Help

Gum bleeding

Hello, Doctor.
I am currently in Australia on a working holiday.
Medical expenses are quite high here, but I have been experiencing symptoms for almost a month, and I am quite worried.
I am unsure which specialty to consult, so I hope you can provide some advice.
Here are my symptoms: I started feeling unwell on December 18 last year, initially experiencing a sore throat, cough, and nasal congestion.
After about two weeks, I felt somewhat better, but when I arrived in Sydney for New Year's on December 28, the significant temperature fluctuations caused my symptoms to worsen again.
I began to experience diarrhea, and my gums started to bleed! The diarrhea has stopped, but the gum bleeding has persisted until now.
When I feel more stressed and have trouble sleeping, I experience a sensation as if my teeth are going to fall out, and the bleeding has increased.
I usually floss regularly and have rarely had dental issues in the past.
Could this be related to my previous cold? Should I see a family doctor or a dentist? Thank you very much!

Fern, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/22

Dr. Zeng Guanghui reply Dentistry

According to the above statement, the initial upper respiratory tract infection is usually caused by a viral infection, which triggers an inflammatory response in the gingival tissue from the immune system.
Additionally, if there is significant stress or irregular lifestyle habits, it can further impact the immune system, allowing the bacteria in the oral cavity to cause a more severe infection.
It is recommended that if the symptoms of the cold have significantly improved, one should consult a dentist for further management.

Reply Date: 2016/01/22

More Info

Gum bleeding can be a concerning symptom, especially when it persists for an extended period, as you have experienced. Based on your description, it seems that your gum bleeding began after a series of respiratory symptoms, including a sore throat, cough, and nasal congestion, which you experienced during your trip to Sydney. While it may seem unrelated, there are several factors that could contribute to your current gum issues.

Firstly, respiratory infections can sometimes lead to systemic changes in the body, including inflammation and immune response alterations. This can affect your oral health, especially if you were experiencing a lot of coughing or nasal congestion, which might have led to mouth breathing. Mouth breathing can dry out the gums and oral tissues, making them more susceptible to irritation and bleeding.

Secondly, the stress from traveling and the changes in your environment, such as temperature fluctuations, can also impact your immune system and overall health. Stress is known to exacerbate various health issues, including oral health problems. It can lead to bruxism (teeth grinding), which may cause gum irritation and bleeding.

Regarding your dental hygiene, you mentioned that you regularly use dental floss, which is excellent for maintaining gum health. However, if you have been experiencing gum bleeding, it might be worth evaluating your technique or the type of dental products you are using. Sometimes, aggressive flossing or using a toothbrush with hard bristles can irritate the gums and lead to bleeding.

Given that your symptoms have persisted for a month, it is advisable to seek professional help. In Australia, you have a couple of options. Since your primary concern is gum bleeding, visiting a dentist would be the most appropriate first step. A dentist can assess your gum health, check for signs of gingivitis or periodontal disease, and provide treatment options. They can also clean your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar buildup that might be contributing to the bleeding.

If the dentist finds no significant dental issues, or if your symptoms seem to be related to your overall health, they may refer you to a general practitioner (GP) or a family doctor. A GP can evaluate your systemic health, including any potential underlying conditions that might be causing your gum bleeding, such as vitamin deficiencies (like Vitamin C or K), blood disorders, or other systemic diseases.

In summary, while your gum bleeding may not directly relate to your previous respiratory illness, the stress and changes in your routine could contribute to your current symptoms. It is essential to consult with a dentist first to rule out any dental issues. If necessary, they can guide you to further medical evaluation. Remember, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial, but if bleeding persists, professional evaluation is key to addressing the underlying causes effectively.

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