Throat sores: Images, signs, origins, and additional details
Canker sores, also known as mouth ulcers or aphthous ulcers, are small lesions that can cause discomfort in the mouth and throat. These sores are common, and while their exact cause remains unknown, a variety of factors can contribute to their recurrence.
Canker sores can last for up to four weeks, with major canker sores potentially leaving a scar. In some cases, prescription medications such as corticosteroids and immunosuppressants may be necessary to treat severe canker sores.
There are several common causes of recurring canker sores. Mucosal trauma or irritation, due to factors such as accidental biting, aggressive brushing, or burns from hot foods, can trigger canker sores. Consuming acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and coffee, or beverages like coffee, often aggravate or trigger these ulcers.
Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, and zinc, have been linked to a higher risk of developing canker sores. Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during menstruation, and emotional stress can also contribute to their recurrence.
Certain medications and oral care products, including beta-blockers, NSAIDs, chemotherapy agents, and toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, can irritate the mucosa and precipitate canker sores. Autoimmune or systemic diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, lupus, and Behcet’s disease, are associated with recurrent canker sores. A family history of canker sores can also increase susceptibility.
Acid reflux and other less common triggers might also contribute to throat ulcers by causing inflammation.
If canker sores persist longer than two to three weeks, are very painful, cause difficulty eating or drinking, or if the canker sore keeps returning, medical evaluation is recommended to rule out infections or more serious underlying conditions. Doctors can typically diagnose canker sores based on their appearance and symptoms, but they may order tests if canker sores keep coming back.
There are three types of canker sores: minor, major, and herpetiform. Minor canker sores are the most common, while major and herpetiform canker sores are less common and more severe. Taking an iron or B vitamin supplement may help prevent canker sores due to deficiency.
Home remedies for canker sores include a saltwater rinse, drinking cold water, and eating soft frozen yogurt or ice cream. It is best not to eat anything with sharp edges to avoid irritating canker sores further. Over-the-counter gels and creams containing an anti-inflammatory or pain relief agent can be used to treat canker sores. In severe cases, silver nitrate cautery or a medicated or antimicrobial mouthwash may be necessary.
It is important to note that cold sores, which appear outside the mouth, usually around the lips, are caused by the herpes simplex virus and are contagious, while canker sores are not contagious.
Reducing stress may help in preventing recurring canker sores. Dentists can examine the mouth and suggest possible treatments for canker sores that keep returning. If you are experiencing persistent canker sores, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Oral herpes, caused by the herpes simplex virus, is not the same as canker sores, as cold sores appear outside the mouth, usually around the lips, and are contagious, while canker sores are not contagious.
- Certain medications and oral care products, including chemotherapy agents, toothpaste containing sodium lauryl sulfate, and immunosuppressants, can cause canker sores due to mucosa irritation.
- Autoimmune or systemic diseases, such as psoriatic arthritis, ulcerative colitis, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, are associated with recurrent canker sores.
- Diabetes, science suggests, might increase the risk of developing canker sores due to poor blood sugar control and increased inflammation.
- Predictive tests, like analyzing the level of acute phase reactants (AQ) and complete blood count, can help doctors determine if canker sores keep coming back as a sign of an underlying condition.
- COPD, a chronic inflammatory lung disease, can lead to nondigestive ulcers, along with a sore throat, as a symptom of poor oral health-and-wellness.
- A family history of canker sores can increase susceptibility to these mouth ulcers, making it important for individuals to be aware of their family medical history and potential triggers.
