Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are common oral lesions. While typically found inside the mouth on the cheeks, lips, or gums, these small, painful sores can also develop in the throat. Their presence in this less common location can be uncomfortable. Understanding the factors that contribute to throat sores is helpful for management.
What Are Canker Sores in the Throat?
A canker sore is a small, shallow ulcer that appears as a round or oval lesion with a whitish center and a distinct red border. When these sores form on the tonsils or deeper in the throat, they can cause a sensation similar to a sore throat, making swallowing difficult or painful.
It is important to distinguish canker sores from cold sores. Canker sores develop inside the mouth or on the throat and are not contagious. In contrast, cold sores, caused by the herpes simplex virus, appear outside the mouth, often around the lips, and are highly contagious. While painful, canker sores in the throat usually resolve on their own within about one to three weeks.
Common Triggers for Throat Canker Sores
The exact cause of canker sores is not fully understood, but several common factors can trigger their development in the throat. Minor injuries, such as accidentally biting the inside of the cheek or throat, or irritation from dental work, can create small wounds that lead to sores. Emotional stress is also a recognized trigger.
Dietary habits can also contribute to throat canker sores. Consuming highly acidic foods and beverages like citrus fruits, tomatoes, pineapples, vinegar, or sour candies may irritate the throat lining. Spicy foods, chocolate, coffee, nuts, and cheeses have also been reported as triggers for some individuals.
Deficiencies in specific nutrients, such as vitamin B-12, iron, or folic acid, are linked to an increased likelihood of developing these sores. Additionally, some individuals react to chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate, commonly found in certain toothpastes and mouthwashes. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those experienced during menstruation, can also play a role.
Medical Conditions and Infections
Beyond common triggers, canker sores in the throat can also stem from underlying medical conditions or various infections.
Viral Infections
Viral infections are a frequent cause, including the herpes simplex virus, which can produce painful ulcers in the throat, or hand, foot, and mouth disease. Cases are also linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, and COVID-19 has been associated with oral sores.
Bacterial and Fungal Infections
Bacterial infections, such as those causing tonsil stones, can irritate throat tissues and lead to sores. Fungal infections, like oral thrush or yeast infections, often appear as a white, cottage cheese-like coating in the mouth and can cause or worsen throat sores, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Systemic Conditions
Systemic conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, can result in throat ulcers. Inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, as well as celiac disease and Behcet’s disease, are also known to manifest with oral sores.
Medications
Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), bisphosphonates, some antibiotics, and chemotherapy drugs, can have throat sores as a side effect.
Relief and Prevention Strategies
Managing throat canker sores involves both immediate relief and preventative measures.
Relief Strategies
For comfort, individuals can try home remedies such as rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater. Consuming cold liquids, sucking on ice chips, or eating soft, bland foods like frozen yogurt, warm tea, or soup can help soothe the pain and make swallowing easier. It is advisable to avoid acidic, spicy, or sharp-edged foods that might further irritate the sore.
Over-the-counter options, including medicated mouthwashes or topical gels, may offer localized pain relief. If sores are very large, cause intense pain, make breathing difficult, or persist beyond three weeks, seeking medical attention is recommended. A doctor might prescribe stronger ointments with anesthetic or corticosteroid properties.
Prevention Strategies
To prevent recurrence, identifying and avoiding personal triggers is helpful, whether they are specific foods or oral hygiene products. Maintaining good oral hygiene, managing stress levels, and addressing any diagnosed nutritional deficiencies with supplements can also reduce the frequency of sores. If medications are suspected as a cause, discussing alternative options with a healthcare provider is prudent.