Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
A sharp ache in your throat when trying to swallow does not necessarily have to be the side effect of a cold. It could also be a throat ulcer.
A throat ulcer, which is an open sore in the throat, may be brought on by a bacterial or fungal infection, an illness or injury, or a tear in the mucous membrane.
They often last for 4-5 days and are accompanied by acute discomfort, a shooting earache, and red, swelling sores that make eating and speaking challenging.
They can also be connected to acid reflux and gastrointestinal issues. The good news is that you probably won’t need to visit a doctor or dentist for this throat ulcer, but the bad news is that the pain can make it difficult to go about your everyday activities.
Medical authorities recommend looking into any ulcers that weren’t healing or kept coming back after lasting 2 to 10 weeks.
Symptoms of throat ulcer
Throat ulcers may be accompanied by various symptoms, including:
- Bad breath
- Coughing
- Difficulty in breathing
- Sore throat
- Difficulty speaking
Saltwater
Before you rush to the doctor’s office or reach for strong antibiotics, consider gargling salt water. There is scientific evidence to support the medicinal benefits of saltwater.
Gargling with salt water helps to wash away the mucus that lines the throat, aids in killing microorganisms and helps reduce inflammation associated with a sore throat.
Take a half-teaspoon of salt in a full glass of warm water to make a saltwater solution. Gargle and spit it out in the sink, making sure the rinse comes in contact with the ulcer in the throat. Repeat every three hours.
Chamomile tea
Researchers have claimed that chamomile tea has a calming effect on the throat. Its anti-inflammatory and astringent effects can help to reduce swelling and redness.
Its antioxidant properties can help to dissolve mucus and coat your throat to prevent irritation when you swallow.
Various studies have also shown that inhaling chamomile steam can help lessen cold symptoms, such as a sore throat, and can aid in the body’s defence against the virus by boosting the immune system.
Baking soda
Just like with salt water, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can also help soothe a sore throat by reducing bacteria in the mouth and stopping yeast and fungi from growing.
A baking soda rinse made by mixing one teaspoon of baking soda with a half cup of warm water can work wonders for a throat ulcer.
Fenugreek
Fenugreek provides numerous health advantages, and fenugreek tea has been regarded as a natural sore throat treatment.
It has been shown to be loaded with antibacterial compounds and anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce pain as well as eliminate microorganisms causing irritation or inflammation.
Apple cider vinegar
It is a known fact that the natural antimicrobial properties of Apple cider vinegar can help to thin mucus secretions in the throat and prevent bacteria from spreading. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties can help in healing throat ulcers.
Add salt and 1 to 2 tablespoons of ACV to heated water. For throat ulcer treatment, gargle for 20 to 30 seconds two to three times each day.
Remember to always dilute the acidity of apple cider vinegar with water.
Garlic
Science backs up the effectiveness of garlic in alleviating throat inflammation caused by seasonal allergies, colds, and ulcers.
Garlic is a magical herb that contains antimicrobial and antioxidant qualities such as allicin, an organosulfur chemical that has anti-infective properties by nature.
Studies demonstrate that drinking ginger tea by boiling a 2-inch raw root in one cup of water can soothe a red, inflamed throat.
Final thoughts
A throat ulcer is definitely unwelcome, but the good news is that it doesn’t last forever! You may assume that your painful sore throat is a symptom of a significant ailment that requires quick medical attention.
But if you’ve just developed a throat ulcer, give your throat time to rest with mouth rinses and the above-mentioned at-home remedies to reduce pain reduction and feel better within a week!
Also, opting for periodic health checkups is a great way to stay on top of your overall well-being, and address any concerns that might pop up, before things get out of hand.
