It is reasonable to assume that those who acquire gingivitis or other forms of gum disease do not take the finest care for their teeth and gums, right? Hold on a second. In spite of the fact that not practicing proper oral hygiene can make you more susceptible to developing gum disease, it is also true that gum disease is not necessarily associated with poor oral hygiene. Gum disease can sometimes indicate the presence of a systemic disease. One example of gum disease that develops as a result of another condition is known as strawberry gum disease. In this particular case, the underlying condition is granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA). If there is any issue related to dental health, a dentist in Boca Raton is always there to help you out.
What is Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis?
GPA, also known as Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis, is a form of vasculitis. Vasculitis refers to a collection of medical conditions characterized by inflammation in the blood vessels. The good news is that having a high GPA is quite uncommon. The cause of GPA is currently unknown. However, it is important to note that this condition is not believed to be genetic, and it is also not contagious. This means that one person cannot transmit it to another. According to certain research, the development of this condition may be attributed to the immune system causing damage to the blood vessels and other tissues.
Symptoms of GPA
Strawberry gum disease also referred to as strawberry gingivitis, can be a possible symptom of GPA. However, it is important to note that both GPA and strawberry gingivitis are relatively uncommon conditions. Some of the symptoms that may be present in granulomatosis with polyangiitis are:
Nosebleeds, stuffiness, sinus infections, and discharge that looks like pus with crusts
Wheezing, occasionally accompanied by bloody mucus
Excessive wheezing or difficulty breathing
Fever
Feeling exhausted
Joint pain
Feelings of numbness in the extremities
Losing weight
Symptoms such as skin lesions, bruises, or rashes; blood in the urine
Redness, burning, or pain in the eyes, as well as issues with vision
Inflammation of the ear canal and hearing loss
The condition mostly impacts the lungs of certain individuals. It is possible to diagnose kidney disease with blood and urine testing. Kidney or lung failure can develop in the absence of treatment.
What does strawberry gingivitis look like?
Strawberry gingivitis should not be confused with the type of gingivitis that arises from inadequate oral hygiene. Strawberry gum disease, also referred to as "hyperplastic granular gingivitis," is a condition that leads to the enlargement and nodularity of the gums. The gums may frequently appear red and sore, and they may also bleed easily. The lesions associated with the issue can occur throughout the gums or in specific areas, resulting in varying appearances of strawberry gum disease among different patients.
Strawberry Gum Disease and GPA Diagnosis and Treatment
The treatment for strawberry gum disease typically varies from the treatment for other types of gum disease. If you observe any bumpy, red, or significantly swollen areas on your gums, it is advisable to discuss the matter with your dentist or doctor. Strawberry gingivitis is typically an early indication of GPA, prompting healthcare professionals to conduct further screening for GPA. The process of diagnosing GPA involves:
Performing a biopsy of the area.
Conducting a physical examination.
An X-ray can be performed to examine the lungs or other organs for signs of inflammation.
Approximately one-third of patients diagnosed with GPA exhibit lung abnormalities that are detectable on an X-ray, even in cases where the patient does not experience any respiratory symptoms. The treatment for GPA can often be ongoing, although many people recover from it within a few months if the condition is detected early and promptly treated. The primary treatments for GPA typically involve the use of corticosteroids and immunosuppressive medications. These medications are aimed at reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune system, which are key factors in managing the condition. If you are concerned about the appearance of your gums, the best course of action for you to do is to visit your dentist in Boca Raton and get a good examination done. In order to maintain the health of your gums, it is essential that you maintain a high level of oral cleanliness at home and that you visit a dental expert for regular dental hygiene checkups.