Mouth sores from BBT thermometer...is there a solution?

[justKate]

So since I've been charting, I've gotten a really painful sore all the way in the back under/alongside my tongue.  About two weeks ago, it was on the left; that went away, now it's on the right.  It's so painful I can barely talk, much less eat.  I read these threads about preventing them; also here, but mine are coming from me falling asleep for a few seconds while taking my temp (I think).  How in the world to I get this to stop?  Or more importantly atm, how do I speed the healing?  My throat is sore now and the lymph node on that side is hard and swollen too....  I've swished peroxide in there, but no bubbles, so it seems like the problem is now below the surface of the skin (although the pain is everywhere!).

This is the thermometer I'm using, if that makes a difference.

I saw someone suggested a zinc deficiency--would a magnesium/zinc combo supplement be a step in the right direction?  (Just 'cause I know I have that at home.)

Thanks in advance!

[KimPM]

You might simply be sensitive to something in the metal end of the thermometer.  Perhaps it has nickel in it?  That's a common allergen.  But it could be anything the tip is made of.  One thing to try is another brand of BBT thermometer, such as Beckton Dickinson.  Another thing to try is to use a new thermometer in a new place, such as the underarm or other area of your body, to at least give the mouth a rest.

[Kyamo]

If you've only had them since you've been charting, it is probably not a canker sore as they are talking about in those threads. You would have had those since childhood.

That is a weird problem. Is it possible you're allergic to the metal in the thermometer? You could also try temping vaginally, that might fix it if it is the way you are holding it in your mouth, but if you are allergic to the metal it probably won't be pleasant in your vagina either.

[~~Sarah~~]

consider using plastic thermometer covers