Red spots appearing on the palate (the roof of the mouth) can be a source of confusion and concern. The palate is composed of the hard palate at the front and the soft palate toward the back, and both are covered in a sensitive mucous membrane. These spots, medically referred to as lesions, can vary in appearance, ranging from tiny, pinpoint dots to larger, raised sores. The underlying causes encompass minor physical trauma, generalized infections, or underlying systemic conditions that require medical attention.
Spots Caused by Local Injury and Irritation
The most frequent causes of red spots are related to direct physical damage or excessive heat exposure to the delicate tissues of the mouth. A common example is a thermal burn, often known as “pizza palate,” which occurs after consuming very hot foods or liquids. This heat exposure can damage the mucosal surface, leading to inflamed, red patches that typically resolve within a few days to a week. Mechanical irritation can also cause spots, such as scraping the palate with sharp foods, aggressive brushing, or consistent rubbing from poorly fitting dental appliances. Sucking injuries can also cause small spots to appear. These localized injuries are usually minor and heal without intervention.
Infectious Origins of Palate Spots
Infections represent a significant category of causes for red spots on the palate, originating from viruses, bacteria, or fungi. Viral infections are particularly common, especially in children, and are often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever.
Viral Infections
Hand-Foot-Mouth Disease (HFMD), caused by the Coxsackievirus, produces painful, blister-like sores on the palate, hands, and feet. Another viral illness, Herpangina, specifically targets the posterior part of the mouth, creating small ulcers on the soft palate and tonsils. Unlike HFMD, it typically does not present with a rash on the hands or feet.
Bacterial and Fungal Causes
Bacterial infections, such as strep throat (Group A Streptococcus), can cause tiny, pinpoint hemorrhages called petechiae on the palate. These spots accompany symptoms like a sudden sore throat, fever, and swollen neck lymph nodes. Oral thrush (candidiasis) is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans. While often presenting as creamy white patches, the underlying tissue can be irritated and red, producing red spots, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Inflammatory and Systemic Contributors
Some red spots signal a systemic issue or an inflammatory response rather than a local injury or common infection. Petechiae, the small red dots caused by burst capillaries, are a common finding on the palate and can be triggered by severe physical strain. Forceful actions like intense coughing, prolonged vomiting, or straining during a bowel movement can increase pressure, rupturing the tiny vessels in the soft palate.
Systemic Causes
Palatal petechiae can also be a manifestation of underlying conditions affecting blood health or clotting ability. Disorders that result in a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia) or other clotting disorders can cause spontaneous bleeding. Certain systemic viral infections, such as infectious mononucleosis caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, are also known to commonly cause these small hemorrhages.
Inflammatory Responses
Aphthous ulcers, commonly called canker sores, are an inflammatory cause that can appear on the palate. These sores typically start as small red spots before developing into white or yellowish ulcers surrounded by a red border. They are not contagious and are often triggered by factors like minor trauma, stress, or specific acidic foods. Allergic reactions to certain foods, medications, or ingredients in oral hygiene products can also manifest as generalized redness or scattered red patches.
Recognizing Serious Symptoms and Seeking Care
Although many red spots on the palate are benign and self-resolving, certain accompanying signs should prompt a consultation with a healthcare professional. Persistence is a significant indicator, so any spots that do not show signs of healing or disappear within seven to ten days should be evaluated. Immediate medical attention is warranted if the red spots are accompanied by signs of systemic illness, such as a high fever, severe headache, or unexplained widespread bruising on the body. Difficulty swallowing, persistent bleeding from the spots, or a feeling of a lump in the throat also require prompt investigation.