Trusted Source canker sores are usually found on the inside cheeks and lips. However, they can also affect the back of your throat and tonsils.
Most sores heal themselves and are not contagious. Home remedies and OTC medications can ease the symptoms and promote healing.
Signs OF Canker Sores in Your Throat
The mucous membrane is the protective layer that covers the throat and mouth. These sores look small, greyish or white spots with a red border. They can appear slightly sunken with raised edges. They are usually only a few millimetres in with trusted Sources.
A canker sore is most commonly characterized by pain. The affected area may experience a burning or tingling sensation. Consuming spicy or acidic food can make the pain worse. It may also be painful to try to chew or speak.
Canker sores can develop on the tonsil. A sore throat may only be present on one side of the throat. This could lead to tonsillitis.
Types Of Canker Sores in Your Throat
There are three types:
- Minor
- Major
- herpetiform
Minor canker sores can be as small as a few millimetres, while major canker sores can grow to 1-3 cmTrusted Source. Herpetiform sores are multiple small canker sores about the same size as a pinhead.
Major canker sores may take up to four weeks trusted Source to heal. Scarring can occur. They can cause more pain than minor canker sores and may make it difficult for you to eat or drink normally. Sometimes, major canker sores will not heal in all cases.
Herpetiform canker sores may join together to form larger areas, which can cause scarring. This type of canker sore can be a more common trusted Source than minor ones.
Home remedies and treatments of Canker Sores in Your Throat
Most canker sores heal themselves without any treatment. Some medications and remedies can help relieve pain.
Home remedies
Saltwater rinse can combine half a teaspoon salt with warm water. The rinse can be used up to three times per day for their throats and tonsils.
You might find that drinking cold water or sucking on ice cubes can help to numb your pain. Soft frozen yogurt and ice cream may also be helpful. Avoid sharp edges. This will help prevent canker sores from getting worse.
These lifestyle changes can help with recurring canker sores
- Avoid spicy and acidic foods
- reducing stress
- Taking iron or B vitamin supplements
Medical treatments
The use of medication can reduce pain and swelling. This can encourage canker sores to heal faster.
OTC creams and gels with an anti-inflammatory and pain relief agent can be found online and applied directly to the ulcer. Gels can be applied to the canker sore to create a protective barrier, stopping further irritation.
It may be difficult to find a canker sore in your throat. A mouthwash is a better way to reduce pain and swelling and the chance of infection. It is best to use medicated or antimicrobial toothpaste.
Online purchase of canker sore remedies is possible. Before purchasing canker sore medicine online, anyone who isn’t sure what to do can consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Prescription medication may be necessary for severe canker sores. Pills can be used to reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process of severe ulcers.
In severe or recurring canker sores, laser therapy may be helpfulTrusted Source. It is not a cure but can speed up healing by drying and disinfecting canker sores.
Risk factors and causes
It isn’t clear why certain people are more susceptible to developing canker sores than others. There could be a genetic connection since canker sores are common in families.
Canker sores could be caused by:
- Stress and hormonal changes
- Mouth or throat injuries
- Vitamin B or iron deficiency
- Consuming spicy or acidic food
Canker sores are more common in people with a weak immune system trusted Source. This could include people with HIV, leukemia or rheumatoid.
An immune deficiency temporarily can lead to canker sores. A trusted Source may be able to help. This can occur after an illness, during pregnancy or following certain medical treatments such as chemotherapy.
Canker sores can be more common in those with underlying medical conditions. Behcet’s Disease and inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative collitis, are two examples.
What is the average life expectancy of these products?
The pain should subside within a few days after a canker sore has appeared. A minor canker sore should heal quickly and disappear within one week.
It may take up to four weeks for major canker stores’ trusted Source to heal. They might leave scarring.
Canker sores can be a common problem for some people. According to Trusted Source, a person can get a canker sore anywhere from three to six times per year.
If a minor canker sore persists for longer than two weeks, becomes very painful, or makes it difficult to eat or drink, a person should consult a doctor. The doctor will examine the canker sore and the inside of your mouth. The doctor may also ask questions about the patient’s eating habits.
Canker sores can sometimes be exacerbated by gum or teeth problems. A dentist can inspect the mouth and recommend possible treatments.
Cold sores vs. canker sores
Canker sores and cold sores can be small, painful lesions that cause burning or tingling sensations.
Canker sores can appear in the mouth, while cold sores may appear outside the mouth, often around the lips.
The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores. They can be spread by close contacts such as sharing a drink or kissing. They are not contagious.
Summary
It can be more difficult for a canker sore from being treated in the throat than the mouth. If it is difficult to apply a cream, gel or cream directly onto the ulcer, a medicated mouthwash might be helpful.
Canker sores can be a common problem for people susceptible to them. You can reduce the frequency of canker sores by avoiding foods that can irritate your throat and reducing stress.
If a minor canker sore persists for more than 2 weeks, it is best to visit a doctor.
