A throat ulcer is an open sore or lesion that forms on the mucous lining of the pharynx (the back of the throat) or the esophagus (the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach). This condition is not a specific disease but rather a symptom of an underlying issue, such as infection, injury, or chronic irritation. Whether a throat ulcer can spread to another person depends entirely on the root cause that led to its formation.
Causes That Make Throat Ulcers Contagious
The ulcers that are contagious typically result from viral or bacterial infections spread through close personal contact, respiratory droplets, or contact with contaminated surfaces. Viral pathogens are the most frequent infectious cause of throat ulcers, creating open sores that shed the virus. For instance, Coxsackievirus, which causes Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease and herpangina, spreads readily through saliva, blister fluid, and fecal matter, particularly in young children.
Another common culprit is the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), which can cause ulcers in the mouth and throat through direct contact with active lesions or infected saliva. The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), known for causing infectious mononucleosis, can also lead to throat inflammation and ulceration, spreading through infected saliva often via kissing or sharing drinks. These viral infections establish themselves in the body and are highly transmissible, sometimes remaining contagious even after the ulcers have healed.
Bacterial infections can also be a source of contagious throat ulcers, though this is less common than viral causes. Group A Streptococcus bacteria, the cause of strep throat, can sometimes lead to ulceration on the tonsils and throat lining, spreading through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Though rare, the bacteria responsible for secondary syphilis can also manifest as highly infectious mucosal sores in the throat, transmitted through direct contact with these lesions. Understanding the specific infectious agent is necessary to implement the correct isolation and treatment protocols.
Non-Infectious Reasons for Throat Ulcers
Many throat ulcers are not caused by a pathogen and therefore pose no risk of transmission to others. One of the most common non-contagious causes is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), where stomach acid frequently washes back up into the esophagus. This chronic exposure to corrosive acid irritates and eventually erodes the protective lining of the esophagus, leading to the formation of acid-induced ulcers. The resulting sores are purely chemical injuries and cannot be passed on.
Physical trauma is another non-contagious source of throat ulcers, occurring when the throat tissue is mechanically damaged. This can happen from swallowing a piece of sharp or abrasive food, or from medical procedures like intubation, where a tube is temporarily passed down the throat.
Certain medications can also induce non-infectious ulcers; for example, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and some antibiotics can directly irritate the esophageal lining if they do not pass quickly enough. Patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation for cancer often develop painful ulcers, known as mucositis, as the treatment targets and damages rapidly dividing cells in the throat lining. Furthermore, certain complex autoimmune conditions, such as Behçet’s disease, can cause recurrent ulcers in the mouth and throat as a result of systemic inflammation. In all these instances, the ulcer is a localized reaction to internal or external non-infectious stress.
Minimizing Spread and Treating Discomfort
Preventing the spread of infectious throat ulcers requires consistent attention to basic personal hygiene practices. Individuals with contagious causes should:
- Wash their hands frequently and thoroughly, especially after touching their mouth or before preparing food.
- Avoid sharing eating utensils, drinking glasses, or personal items like towels, as these can easily transfer infectious saliva or droplets.
- Limit close contact, such as kissing.
- Stay home from work or school during the most symptomatic phase to help reduce community transmission.
Symptomatic treatment focuses on managing the pain and discomfort associated with all types of throat ulcers, regardless of their origin. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can effectively reduce pain and any accompanying fever. Gargling with warm salt water can also offer a soothing effect and help keep the area clean.
Dietary modifications are beneficial for ulcer healing and comfort, involving the avoidance of irritants like spicy, acidic, or very hot foods and beverages. Instead, soft, cool, or cold foods like yogurt, ice cream, or non-citrus frozen popsicles are generally easier to swallow and can provide relief. If the ulcers are severe, persistent, or accompanied by difficulty swallowing or signs of dehydration, a medical professional should be consulted for a definitive diagnosis and targeted treatment, such as antiviral or antifungal medication.