I've had aphtous ulcers appearing on and off for a year now. They were large and very painful at first, a new one appearing a few weeks after another. Over the months they have become less frequent/large/painful and I recently went 10 weeks without one at all. The appear mostly under my tongue and gum/cheek line or inner gums. A very few on my inside lips.

I have no other ill health symptoms of HIV symptoms. Is it possible that these ulcers could be signs of HIV infection and that for a year I would show no other symptom at all, and the ulcers actually get fewer or less frequent?

It does not seem to so me. I have also been under stress a lot during that time, but I would expect if ulcers were associated with HIV, one year on I could expect more/worse and other oral symptoms too to have increased, not decreased? Would you agree?

Even though we see many oral manifestations associated with HIV infection, none of them are solely seen in HIV positive individuals. The latest published evidence I have seen indicates that approximately 20% of the general adult population presents with aphthous ulcerations. I am of the opinion that this number actually underestimates the true percentage of people who have bouts with oral aphthous ulcers. Factors which contribute to the presentation of aphthous ulcers include stress and food allergies.

Whereas we have the means to address the inflammation seen in association with severe aphthous ulcerations via the use of topical or systemic corticosteroids, only recently have we been able to address pain and discomfort. A new over-the-counter product, Orabase SOOTHE-N-SEAL, forms a long lasting barrier (6 hours) which eliminates pain. Since this product is just being introduced, I believe for the time being it can only be found in Wallmart stores. It will soon be available in all drug store chains and most grocery stores.

I hope this information proves helpful!

DR