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Palate pain causes and therapy
contents
- The palate: definition and structure
- Causes of palatal pain
- Cause neuralgia
- Pain in the palate with allergy
- Pain on the palate with toothache
- palate cancer
- Treatment: What helps with palate pain?
- Home remedies for palate pain
- Natural remedies for palatal pain
Acute onset complaints often have relatively harmless causes, such as Burning with hot food or a cold, they usually heal quickly. In addition, a pain sensation in the palate but also in the context of various diseases can occur. Eligible here are e.g. an allergy, inflammation of the gums or tonsils, in rare cases also certain forms of neuralgia (neuralgia), abscesses or a malignant tumor in the oral cavity are possible. If the pain persists for several days, a doctor should always be consulted as a precaution, in order to clarify the trigger precisely and not to take any health risks.
The palate: definition and structure
The term "palate" (Latin: palatum) refers to the upper wall or "roof" of the oral cavity, separating it from the nasal cavity and the pharynx. The anterior part ("hard palate") is formed from the upper jawbone (maxilla) and the so-called palatine bone (os palatinum). The oral mucosa is immobile in this area, firmly fused with the periosteum and extends approximately to the whitening teeth (med.: "third molars"). Here, the transition into the posterior, soft palate (Palatum molle), which is formed from the "soft palate" and the centrally located uvula (uvula). This consists of a connective tissue plate into which various muscles (such as the soft palate tensor muscle) radiate, thereby being mobile in contrast to the anterior part.
During the swallowing process, the soft palate pulls the soft palate upward, separating the oral cavity from the nasopharynx and preventing food from entering the nose. The "suppository", however, plays an important role, especially in the formation of sounds. For without the uvula, for example, the letter combination "Ch" would not be possible, just as the consonant "r" could not be spoken correctly, because the suppository necessarily "flutters" against the back tongue for this.
In case of persistent symptoms on the palate, a doctor should be consulted. (Image: Dan Race - fotolia) From the soft palate, two mucosal folds go down to the right and left, leading to the lateral pharyngeal wall and the base of the tongue. Between these so-called "palatal arches" are the "palatine tonsils" (Tonsilla palatina), which consist of lymphatic tissue and serve as part of the immune system to ward off pathogens. The transition from the front to the back is particularly noticeable when the mouth is opened wide and "Ah" is said. Accordingly, the boundary between the two areas is also referred to as "Ah line".
Causes of palatal pain
Pain in the area of the palate often results from relatively harmless causes. In many cases, for example, foods that are too hot or drinks, such as a piece of pizza, coffee or tea the trigger, which causes burns or scalds on the tongue or the delicate mucous membrane of the palate. As a result, there are redness, swelling, small blisters and often severe pain, which usually occur especially in the front area.
In addition, various infectious diseases may be the cause of the discomfort. In question, for example, a flu-like infection or an inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis), which can be seen with the mouth open partially to the left and right behind the uvula. Almond inflammation is usually caused by bacteria (especially group A streptococci) or viruses caused by droplet infection, e.g. when coughing, kissing or talking from person to person. In addition, an acute inflammatory symptom of another disease, e.g. Pfeiffer's glandular fever (Epstein-Barr virus) or a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans (Soorangina).
Inflammation of the tonsils and / or the palate may be responsible for the pain. Image: rob3000 - fotolia Typically acute acute tonsillitis (angina) causes severe sore throat, e.g. when speaking on the entire pharyngeal area, palate or even can radiate to the ears. In addition, there are usually heavy dysphagia, swelling of the lymph nodes on the neck and general signs of illness such as fatigue, headache and fever. The tonsils are red and swollen, there is a bacterial infection, here also show white-yellow spots (pus). The chronic form (tonsillitis chronica), however, rarely expresses itself by acute symptoms, but sometimes it comes here also to slight dysphagia, bad breath, a decreased ability to concentrate as well as a general feeling of weakness. In some cases, the permanent inflammation of the almond tissue also leads to a constant resurgence of acute tonsillitis (chronic recurrent course).
As a concomitant during treatment, through the use of inappropriate or incorrectly dosed drugs or therapy started too late, can be a complication of tonsillitis abscess formation. While the inflammation in an angina only affects the tonsils, it penetrates in the case of the so-called "peritonsillar abscess" in the surrounding connective tissue and causes there a collection of pus. The symptoms of an almond abscess are similar to those of angina, including, inter alia, to fever, sore throat, heavy dysphagia and sometimes to a complicated mouth (jaw clamp) comes. In addition, due to the strong swelling of the tonsils in some patients an uneven protrusion of the front palate, which often leads to discomfort or pressure pain in this area.
Another possible cause is acute pharyngitis, which is one of the most common diseases affecting the ear, nose and throat. This is an inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, which in most cases is caused by an infection with viruses (for example influenza-causing agents), more rarely but also by bacteria such as A-streptococci or pneumococci. Symptoms of acute pharyngitis (also known as "acute cerebral catarrh") are difficulty in swallowing and severe sore throat, which can spread throughout the pharyngeal area of the mouth and can lead to a sore palate. In addition, there is usually a scratchy, dry throat, a reddened mucosa of the throat and swollen cervical lymph nodes and, in the case of a viral infection, usually fever and headache.
Furthermore, a so-called "zoster oticus" comes into question. This is a special form of shingles (herpes zoster), in which the herpes-typical bubbles settle on the auricle and the external auditory canal. This results in severe pain that can spread to the entire area of the face, as well as fever and general malaise. Depending on where the zoster is located, further complaints such as disturbances of the sense of balance, dizziness and deafness are possible, which may result in permanent hearing impairment or even deafness if no treatment is given.
Cause neuralgia
Cause can be various types of nerve pain (neuralgia) such. the so-called "glossopharyngeal neuralgia". This very rare disease is an attack-like pain in the area of the pharynx, palate, the tongue and the base of the tongue, some of which radiate into the external auditory canal. The pain is usually seen as sharp, piercing and einschießend, sometimes even as "devastating" and can occur both spontaneously and by a "trigger" such. Cold drinks, chewing, yawning or coughing are triggered. The overwhelming majority of those affected can not find a clear cause (ideopathic glossopharyngeal neuralgia), but often (in magnetic resonance tomography) there is a conspicuous compression of the nerve by the pressure of an artery (neurovascular compression). Rarely, a tumor or inflammatory changes or nerve injuries may be the reason for the neuralgia.
The also very rare "laryngeal superior neuralgia" may be the reason for palatal pain. This is a pain of the upper laryngeal nerve (superior laryngeal nerve), which often radiates to the lower jaw and palate, and partially to the shoulders and ears. The complaints are e.g. triggered by speaking, coughing or singing and occur typically abruptly and in the most massive form.
Pain in the palate with allergy
Another possible cause is an allergic rhinitis (allergic rhinitis). This is an inflammatory disease of the nose, which may be limited over a period of time as well as permanent and year round. The most common triggers are pollen, house dust mites, animal hair and mold spores, with pollutants such as. Ozone or fine dust as well as histamine-containing foods (hard cheese, tomatoes, seafood, smoked meat, etc.) can aggravate the symptoms.
The allergic rhinitis is caused by a hypersensitive reaction of the defense cells on the normally "harmless" substances (allergens), which usually occurs within a few minutes after inhalation. As a result, there is a swelling of the nasal mucosa, constant sneezing and a strong itching in the nose, eyes and ears, as often the palate begins to itch and hurt. In addition, many allergic persons suffer from a permanent runny nose, tearing, reddened eyes, difficulty concentrating and fatigue, often accompanied by concomitant diseases such as sinus or conjunctivitis (conjunctivitis). Allergies are now considered a "widespread disease", of which, according to the allergy center of the University Hospital Erlangen nationwide now every third in more or less severe form is affected.
Pain on the palate with toothache
Background can be toothache, which can extend to the entire mouth and throat area and thus affect the palate. Here again very different causes come into consideration, but often caries, gingivitis (gingivitis) or a bacterial inflammation of the dental bed (periodontitis) are responsible for the complaints. Even after a dental treatment, such as The laying of a filling or a root canal treatment can lead to reddening, swelling and pain on the palate due to the strong irritation.
If the pain is very pronounced and accompanied by a squeezing, pulsating sensation on the tooth, an inflammation of the pulp (pulpitis) may be present. In this case, the tissue is affected in the tooth interior, which is surrounded by enamel, dentin and root cementum. Pulpitis is often caused by caries bacteria, which, in the absence or late onset of treatment, gradually "eat" themselves through the individual layers of the tooth into the interior of the pulp. Likewise, e.g. mechanical causes such as teeth grinding or injuries (fall on the tooth, etc.), dental treatments, irregularly grown wisdom teeth or not or not sufficiently healed periodontitis be the trigger.
palate cancer
Another possible cause is a malignant tumor in the oral cavity, which includes, among other things, the lips, the floor of the mouth, the movable tongue, the gums, the cheeks, the hard palate, and the front surface of the soft palate. The oral cavity fulfills various functions, for example by starting food digestion and repelling pathogens by natural bacteria. In addition, plays e.g. the tongue plays an indispensable role for the language and through certain sensory cells ensures the perception of different tastes.
According to the German Cancer Society e.V., around 10 000 people in this region suffer from a tumor in this area every year, about three-quarters of whom are male. Thus, this form of cancer is in seventh place of all malignant tumors in men, but at the same time more and more women are affected. Thus, the disease most often occurs in men between 55 and 65 years of age and in women between 50 and 75 years of age.
The disease can e.g. in the form of lip, tongue or palate fungus, in principle occur in any area of the oral cavity, also it is possible that several sites are affected at the same time (multilocular tumor growth). The first indications of a cancer may be prolonged initially painless changes in the oral mucosa, so these should always be considered as a precaution by a physician. These include, for example, rough, raised or hardened areas, which are reminiscent of a bruise or bite injury. Also typical at the beginning are white-grayish spots, which seem to have "grown together" with the mucous membrane and can not be wiped off or scratched away (leukoplakia). But also possible are bright, dark red mucosal changes that quickly start to bleed (erythroplakia). Mucosal defects, such as sores and non-healing wounds, may also be an important indication.
In the further course you often experience problems with swallowing and chewing, hoarseness, coughing and bloody saliva, as well as pain that can radiate into the ears, the head and the neck. In addition, lymph node swelling on the neck, tooth loosening, feelings of numbness on the tongue, teeth or lips, increased salivation and language difficulties may occur. Some sufferers also suffer from bad breath due to the disintegration of tumor parts (mouth rot). In addition, at an advanced stage, in most patients, common cancers show signs and symptoms, e.g. Fatigue and fatigue, loss of performance and loss of appetite.
The causes of cancer in the oral cavity are not yet fully understood. However, it is believed that certain lifestyle habits may favor their development. Above all, tobacco and alcohol are considered to be the main risk factors, as more than 75 percent of all ENT cancers are diagnosed in people who smoke and drink regularly. However, as the disease also affects abstinent non-smokers, other factors such as Diet or hereditary factors suspected.
Treatment: What helps with palate pain?
Often the complaints are relatively harmless reasons such as a mild flu or an infection of the oral mucosa due to spicy food, hot coffee or similar. based. Accordingly, the pain usually goes back by itself within a few days and does not require any special medical treatment. However, home remedies and alternative therapies are often very well suited to naturally support recovery and to activate the self-healing powers.
However, if the pain is still noticeable and / or intensified after a few days, a doctor should be consulted promptly to clarify the trigger. For palate complaints may also indicate a range of conditions that require timely and appropriate treatment to avoid the risk of complications or sequelae. The concrete procedure is accordingly based on the diagnosed cause and may include a variety of drugs, procedures and measures.
Is e.g. An allergic rhinitis the reason, the central step of therapy is to avoid contact with the corresponding allergens (waiting). However, since this is only possible in the rarest of cases completely, it is usually necessary to prescribe additional medications, which cause the symptoms to be alleviated or not to occur at all. Here, in the case of runny nose, swollen nasal mucosa and conjunctivitis, antihistamines (such as azelastine, cetirizine or clemastine), which are administered in various administration forms, e.g. are available as eye drops, nasal spray or tablets. In addition, the ENT specialist usually advises on possible immunotherapy (hyposensitization) in which the immune system is slowly getting used to the allergy triggers.
In the case of acute, virally induced pharyngitis, antipyretic and analgesic agents (such as paracetamol, ibuprofen) as well as throat pills with locally anesthetic effects are normally used. In addition, if a bacterial infection occurs or are bacteria from the outset the trigger for the inflammation, however, usually an antibiotic therapy is recommended.
If the complaints are based on a cancer in case of emergency, the treatment can also be carried out in different ways, depending on the individual case. The choice of the concrete therapy method depends on the location, size, type and lymphatic spread of the tumor. It also takes into account the patient's age and ability to operate. Smaller tumors are usually treated by surgery or radiation. In the advanced stage, however, a combined procedure is often indicated. Possible here is e.g. an operation plus pre- and post-radiation or the combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy. In addition, it has been possible for some years to treat oral cancer with the antibody "cetuximab", which counteracts the growth and proliferation of the tumor cells. If the antibody is used for therapy, this is usually done in combination with radiation or chemotherapy.
Home remedies for palate pain
If mild burns (such as hot pizza) are the cause of the discomfort, in most cases no doctor's visit is needed. Instead, the affected palate usually heals by itself, with various home remedies can provide helpful assistance. Beneficial for pain, swelling and small burns is e.g. an ice cube, which the person concerned melts in the mouth at the affected area. The effect is intensified when the cube is made of chamomile tea, because the "all-rounder" of herbal medicine inhibits inflammation, promotes wound healing and kills bacteria and fungi. Accordingly, it is advisable always to have a small supply of chamomile cubes in the refrigerator, in order to avoid burning, but also e.g. to have an effective first aid remedy available on a bruise or insect bite. In addition, the icy chamomile has proven in many cases as a home remedy for pimples.
Alternatively, cold water can be used for cooling, as well as suitable for gargling a solution of warm water and a few drops of tea tree oil. It should be noted, however, that the mouth is then carefully rinsed out and the oil is never swallowed. In addition, cold milk, buttermilk or yoghurt may be pain-relieving if left in the mouth for some time. Also, a teaspoon of honey often helps if it is slowly melted in the mouth. However, children under the age of twelve months are excluded, as honey may occasionally cause serious poisoning in infants (infant botulism)..
It is also recommended that during the healing process on acidic, spicy and salty foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, vinegar, chillies, etc., so as not to irritate the affected area even more. The same applies to foods with sharp edges such as e.g. Chips or bread, as these quickly lead to further small injuries of the sensitive tissue. In most cases, burning in the mouth heals quite quickly. If, however, the symptoms persist for more than three to four days or become worse, a doctor should always be consulted as a precaution.
If problems with the teeth are the reason for the palatal pain, in each case first a dentist should be visited, so that if necessary the necessary treatment steps can be initiated in due time. In parallel or as an emergency measure, however, a number of natural remedies can also be used to alleviate the symptoms. As in the case of earache, e.g. the onion is very helpful because of its anti-inflammatory effect. This is chopped small and in a cotton handkerchief or similar. filled, then the roll is gently pressed from the outside to the affected area. Other proven home remedies for toothache are e.g. Kamillepäckchen or Ölziehen dar, also has proven in many cases biting on a clove.
If the palatal complaints occur in connection with a pharyngitis or cold, various home remedies for sore throat can provide a soothing help. Cold neck wraps, regular gargling with a sage-camomile solution or tea from the Bibernellwurze come into consideration here, for example. Likewise, berries such as e.g. Sea buckthorn, black currants or rosehips due to their high vitamin content as a natural remedy for common cold.
Natural remedies for palatal pain
Naturopathy offers an infectious cause e.g. antibacterial medicinal plants, which are gaining more and more popularity due to their diverse applications. These include chamomile, lime blossom and thyme, which can act as a tea directly on the affected areas on the palate, for example.
Camomile relieves inflammation and pain. (Image: Sonja Birkelbach - fotolia) For example, in tonsillitis Schüssler salts can be used. Possible candidates include Ferrum Phosphoricum (# 3), Potassium Chloratum (# 4), Sodium Phosphoricum (# 9) and Potassium Bromate (# 14), with a maximum of three different salts taken at the same time. Non-medical practitioners also often recommend Salt No. 12 (Calcium sulphuricum), whose typical abilities include the alleviation of purulent processes. Accordingly, this agent can be very effective in angina, but e.g. can also be used in the case of sinus vascularization.
If there is a flu or allergic rhinitis, above all a strong defense is important. A diet rich in nutrients and a variety of fruits and vegetables plays a central role, and at the same time attention should be paid to sufficient drinking (at least 2 liters of water a day) and as much exercise as possible in the fresh air. Likewise, in stress and high tension, various relaxation techniques such as autogenic training, yoga or meditation are in many cases effective exercises that strengthen the immune system. In addition, depending on the individual need, a number of other stress reduction measures, such as Applications in the field of hydrotherapy (baths, showers, etc.), massages, acupuncture or psychotherapy help (re) find the inner balance and thus strengthen the body's own defense. (No)