AN OVERVIEW OF THROAT ULCERS, CAUSES AND TREATMENT

Throat ulcers are open sores that usually results from an injury or illness caused due to break in the lining of the throat. It can lead to multiple problems with difficulty in eating, drinking, chewing, swallowing, or talking. Throat ulcers at times can be severe and debilitating as it becomes red and swollen. Still the prognosis is good. CAUSES Ulcers found in the throat may be caused by:

• certain chemotherapy or radiation treatments for cancer
• bacterial or fungal infections, caused by Candida albicans
• Viral infections, such as herpangina, and hand and foot and mouth disease, caused by Coxsackie A virus.
• conditions such as Beh'et's syndrome, which is an inflammatory disease that causes ulcers to form in the mouth, genitals, and other areas of the body
• GERD (Gatroesophageal reflux disease)
• Allergies
• Over consumption of acidic foods, citrus and vinegar, and drinks containing caffeine and alcohol

SYMPTOMS OF THROAT ULCERS

• Sore throat
• Fever and chills
• Joint pain
• Difficulty or pain while swallowing
• Stomach acid regurgitation
• Chest pain or burning (heartburn)
• Feeling as if there is a lump in the throat
• Nausea with or without blood
• Choking sensation

TREATMENT Initially doctors will do a physical exam and evaluate the symptoms. They may then need to take throat cultures, using mouth swabs. Sometimes blood tests and urine tests may be advised to rule out the cause. Your treatment might include:

• Medications such as antivirals, antibiotics, and antifungals
• Pain-relieving drugs, such as acetaminophen
• Mouthwashes containing the local anesthetic lidocaine
• Esophageal ulcers treatment may include antivirals, antibiotics, antifungals, or antiparasitics.
• medications to reduce stomach acid production or activity, such as over-the-counter or prescription antacids, H2 receptor blockers, or proton pump inhibitors

Glucocorticoid therapy Mostly a simple life style modification or some medicines would work. However, in some cases, throat ulcers require extensive medical care and in worst cases, you might require surgery For prevention, you can maintain a healthy weight and stop smoking tobacco or alcohol. If you are suffering from diabetes mellitus then talk to your doctor to prevent developing an ulcer.