How Does a Throat Ulcer Form?

Herpes Simplex Virus

Throat ulcers are painful irritations, or lesions, of the throat lining and have a multitude of causes. One of the most common causes is the Herpes Simplex virus, which normally affects the mouth and lips area and can often travel inside the oral cavity and invade the throat.

Chicken Pox Virus

A person suffering from the chicken pox virus may develop a throat ulcer, a less-common manifestation of the virus. Although the chicken pox virus is most often associated with dermal, or skin, disruptions and sores, the soft mucous membrane lining the throat is not immune.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Heavy abusers of alcoholic beverages, especially drinks such as whiskey, are prone to throat ulcers. The mucous membrane lining the throat is very sensitive to outside influences, and the regular consumption of alcoholic beverages can inflame the lining of the throat.

Bacterial Infections

A variety of bacterial infections can cause throat ulcers to form. Strep throat, which is a common bacterial infection, can often lead to a painful throat ulcer. The bacteria inflames and irritates the mucous membrane of the throat and, in severe cases, an ulcer can form

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