Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that develop inside the mouth. These ulcers are typically round or oval with a white or yellowish center and a distinct red border. While they commonly appear on the inner cheeks, lips, or tongue, they can also develop on the tonsils or in the back of the throat.
Identifying Canker Sores on Tonsils
When on the tonsils, canker sores appear as small, round or oval ulcerations with a white or yellowish center and a red border. These ulcers can vary in size, usually a few millimeters wide, and may occasionally form in clusters. They affect the mucous membrane lining the throat and mouth.
Canker sores on tonsils often cause localized pain, making swallowing difficult (dysphagia). This discomfort may feel like a sore throat, sometimes affecting only one side. Unlike bacterial infections such as strep throat, canker sores are typically not associated with a high fever or widespread redness across both tonsils. A tingling or burning sensation might even precede the sore’s appearance by a day or two.
Common Causes and Triggers
The exact cause of canker sores remains unknown, but several factors are recognized as common triggers. Minor injuries to the mouth, such as those from accidentally biting the cheek, dental work, or abrasive foods, can initiate their formation. Stress is also a frequently cited trigger.
Certain dietary elements contribute to canker sore development, including acidic or spicy foods, coffee, chocolate, and some nuts. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly those involving vitamin B12, folate, or iron, are also linked. Some toothpastes and mouthwashes containing sodium lauryl sulfate can be irritants.
Management and When to Seek Help
Managing canker sores on the tonsils involves alleviating pain and encouraging healing. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, reduce discomfort. Topical anesthetics containing benzocaine can also be applied for temporary pain relief, though applying them directly to tonsils can be challenging. Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater or a baking soda solution cleanse the area and promote healing. Avoiding trigger foods, such as acidic or spicy items, and maintaining good oral hygiene with a soft toothbrush also aid recovery.
While most canker sores on the tonsils heal within one to two weeks, certain signs warrant medical consultation. Seek medical attention if the sores are unusually large, cause severe pain that interferes with eating or drinking, or persist for more than two to three weeks without healing. Consult a doctor if sores are accompanied by a high fever, signs of infection like pus or spreading redness, swollen lymph nodes, or if swallowing or breathing becomes severely difficult. These symptoms could indicate an underlying condition requiring professional diagnosis and treatment, such as a viral infection like herpes simplex or mononucleosis, or even an autoimmune disorder.