Ulcers in the throat represent damage to the mucous membrane of the larynx or pharynx. They can be signs of a large number of diseases, including cancer. The occurrence of an ulcer occurs for various reasons. Their exact definition will help to develop the most effective course of treatment. In most cases, detecting an ulcer in the throat is quite easy, but in some situations you can not do without special equipment. In any case, when the first signs appear, it is better to immediately make an appointment with a specialist.
Reasons for the appearance
A sore throat can not arise just like that, its formation in any case is associated with any deviation or disease. In most cases, the causative agent of this injury is purulent tonsillitis. This disease is quite common due to the ingestion of microbes and bacteria in the oral cavity, which lead to impaired functioning of the body.
In addition to a sore throat, the appearance of ulcers in the throat is affected by the state of the vocal cords. If they are constantly tense, like teachers, artists or presenters, there is a chance of such wounds. In addition, low immunity affects the formation of ulcers. The main causes of sore throats:
- infection in the throat;
- diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- lack of vitamins;
- ignoring the rules of personal hygiene;
- stress and depression;
- allergic reactions.
Why do children develop ulcers?
As you know, a child’s immunity is much weaker than that of an adult. Therefore, children are more susceptible to all kinds of deviations and diseases. Sores in the throat of a child are a fairly common occurrence. They occur most often due to various infections. Also, along with these wounds, body temperature rises, but not always. Causes of ulcers in children:
- mucosal injury resulting from a foreign body;
- infection or virus, such as stomatitis, tonsillitis or herpes;
- low immunity;
- secondhand smoke, when adults often release tobacco smoke in the presence of children;
- non-compliance with hygiene rules;
- irritation of the mucosa as a result of eating acidic foods like tangerines or lemons.
Classification of sore throats
There is one most common classification that divides the wounds into two types: contact and superficial. The first appear most often in the larynx due to the intense tension of the vocal cords. In addition, irritation of the throat by the contents of the stomach can also cause ulcers. People who smoke a lot are also at risk for wounds. Contact ulcers are distinguished by the fact that they are located deep in the throat and cannot be seen with the naked eye. Only a specialist using special equipment can detect wounds.
The appearance of superficial ulcers indicates the presence of any diseases and ailments. Red ulcers are disorders of the throat mucosa that are not accompanied by purulent formations. In most cases, they appear as a result of adverse effects or lack of vitamins.
White sores in the throat are characterized by the presence of pus and are formed as a result of aphthous stomatitis or ulcerative necrotic tonsillitis. These wounds are very sensitive, and any ingress of acidic substances is accompanied by severe pain. Thus, the location and nature of the wounds are very important factors in determining the cause of the ailment. With their help, the doctor will develop the most effective course of treatment.
Symptoms
It must be understood that an ulcer in the throat does not appear just like that, which means there is a certain reason. In addition, the formation of wounds entails certain consequences. Particular attention should be paid to young children, as they often do not say that they have a sore throat. An ulcer develops due to weak immunity, including, and parents often take it for a normal raid from dairy products. Consider the signs of some diseases in which wounds in the throat occur:
- damage to the tonsils of different colors (white, red or yellowish);
- redness of the mucosa;
- dry mouth
- temperature rise;
- weakness of the body;
- sore throat.
If the child refuses to eat, you need to beware, as this is the first sign of sore throat. A photo of this ailment is presented below.
In addition to the considered signs, there may be others associated with damage to the throat mucosa. In any case, if such a situation arises, it is best to immediately seek help from a specialist.
Diagnostics
As soon as you notice the appearance of ulcers in the throat, it is better to immediately make an appointment with an otolaryngologist or therapist. If the child has wounds, you need to contact a pediatrician. The doctor will make a list of necessary procedures that must be completed to identify the diagnosis.
To begin with, he will carefully examine the patient, find out about his illnesses in the past. Be sure to carry out laryngoscopy and endoscopy. With their help, you can determine the position and nature of ulcers. Laryngoscopy is performed with special tools that allow you to examine the mucous membranes of the throat. Endoscopy is aimed at examining the deeper parts.
In most cases, these studies are enough, and the doctor determines the exact diagnosis. But sometimes additional procedures should be performed, such as a biopsy of wound tissues, as well as ultrasound and x-rays of the neck.
Sore throat treatment
The course of therapy directly depends on the causes that caused the ailment. For example, if the wounds appeared as a result of infection, after its elimination all problems disappear. For confidence, it is recommended that you take measures to speed up the recovery process. There are several ways to treat sore throats: with medication, gargle, diet, surgery.
A doctor after a thorough examination and determination of the diagnosis prescribes drugs. Most often prescribed antibiotics, analgesics, antiseptic and antiviral agents.
Rinsing is an excellent solution in any situation. Even if the doctor has not yet determined the diagnosis, you can use this method. In any case, regular rinses are aimed at combating the infection and accelerating recovery. It is recommended to do this after each meal. An effective solution for gargling is considered "Furatsilin", as well as a decoction of chamomile.
As for food, special attention must be paid here. Spicy and acidic foods should be excluded from consumption, as they irritate the wounds, which aggravates the situation.
Sometimes in advanced cases, surgical intervention is necessary. The appearance of ulcers in the throat should not be underestimated. If you do not pay attention to them, this ailment can develop into a serious problem, which is very difficult to solve.
Prevention
In order to prevent the formation of wounds in the throat, it is always necessary to observe basic hygiene rules. The mouth should always be clean, you need to brush your teeth regularly and rinse with antiseptic agents. If there is a bad habit in the form of smoking, you should get rid of it.
Some tips for preventing ulcers:
- avoid injuries and injuries in the mouth;
- chew slowly;
- regularly visit the dentist and observe hygiene;
- to drink a lot of water;
- avoid burns to the oral cavity;
- eat right and balanced.
Conclusion
Thus, we can conclude that sores in the throat cannot occur just like that. Most likely, this is due to any infection or other disease. Children are especially prone to this ailment, since they have weak immunity.
To avoid these problems, you need to follow the rules of personal hygiene: brush your teeth and rinse your mouth with antiseptics. If nevertheless an ulcer has formed, it is better to consult a specialist. After diagnosis, the cause of the wound will be identified, and then the most effective treatment will be prescribed.