The tongue is an essential organ for eating, speaking, and tasting. But sometimes, your tongue may suddenly feel swollen and enlarged. While this may be a little uncomfortable, it is usually nothing to worry about. However, sometimes it can be a sign of a serious health problem. Especially if your tongue swells to the point where it makes it difficult to breathe, it is an emergency. So let's see what are the common causes of a swollen tongue and what to do in such a situation.
Main cause: Allergic reactions
Most of the time, the main reason for a suddenly swollen tongue is allergies. Simply put, when something allergic, such as food or medicine, enters our body, our immune system starts to fight against it. At this time, a lot of chemicals like `(Histamine)` are added to the blood. Due to this, fluid leaks from the blood vessels into the tissues, causing swelling in places like the tongue, lips, and around the eyes. We call this condition Angioedema .
This type of reaction can also occur after an insect bite. Most of the time, the swelling starts within a few hours and subsides within a few days.
Most importantly: If you have difficulty breathing along with a swollen tongue, it is a medical emergency . In such a case, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) without any delay.
In addition to a swollen tongue, symptoms of angioedema may include:
| Additional symptoms |
|---|
| Swelling of the lips and throat |
| Red rash with itching |
| Dizziness |
| Stomach pain or diarrhea |
Sometimes this condition (Angioedema) can develop into a life-threatening emergency called Anaphylaxis , where the tongue and throat swell to the point where breathing is impossible.
Common things that cause allergies
Although everyone's body is different, there are a few common things that cause allergies in most people.
| Things that can cause allergies | Examples |
|---|---|
| Milk and eggs | Cow's milk, eggs |
| Nuts | Peanuts, cashews, walnuts |
| Other foods | Soy, wheat, fish and seafood such as shrimp, oysters |
| Medicines | Antibiotics such as penicillin, some high blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) |
If you have had a severe allergic reaction in the past, your doctor may advise you to carry an auto-injector containing epinephrine. It is important to ask your doctor what to do next if you need to use this medication in such a situation.
Tongue swelling due to injury
This is also very common. Imagine, you are getting a tongue piercing. Then, if you are allergic to the metal used, your tongue may swell. Also, unintentionally biting or cutting your tongue can cause your tongue to swell. This is because the tongue is a sensitive muscle with many blood vessels. Therefore, even a small injury can cause a lot of bleeding and pain. But in most cases, this heals on its own in a few days.
Things you can do at home for a minor injury
- Rinse your mouth with warm salt water after eating.
- Suck on an ice cube or ice pop to reduce swelling and pain.
- If you are not allergic, take a pain reliever like `(Ibuprofen)` as directed by your doctor.
- Avoid alcohol , tobacco, and spicy foods until the wound heals.
Does the tongue swell due to infections?
Yes, infections can also cause swollen tongues. A tongue piercing or cut can cause an infection by allowing bacteria to enter. Or, a condition called Oral Thrush, which is caused by an overgrowth of yeast in the mouth, can also be a cause. Sexually transmitted diseases such as Syphilis, Gonorrhea, or Oral HPV can also affect the tongue.
See a doctor immediately: If you feel unwell, have signs of infection (fever, chills), difficulty eating, or have painful sores or white spots on your tongue, see your doctor or dentist without delay.
A few other reasons
In addition to the above reasons , there is a risk of tongue swelling due to several other factors.
Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Nutrients like magnesium, iron, and vitamin B are essential for the healthy functioning of our nervous system. When our bodies lack these, various problems can arise.
For example, a vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a condition called glossitis . This is when the tongue becomes so swollen that the small bumps (papillae) on the tongue disappear, making it look smooth. This can also be accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, pale skin, and extreme fatigue. A blood test can determine if you are truly deficient in the vitamin. Your doctor can advise you on whether you need to take supplements and how much to take.
Other underlying medical conditions
Sometimes, a swollen tongue can be a symptom of an unknown disease.
- Cancer: A new lump on the tongue could be a sign of cancer. Smoking, tobacco use, and alcohol consumption increase the risk of oral cancer.
- Sjogren's syndrome: This is an immune system disorder that causes the body to not produce enough tears and saliva. This can cause the tongue to appear red, white, or smooth.
- Amyloidosis: In this condition, a protein called amyloid builds up in the body. This can cause swelling of various organs, including the tongue.
Take-Home Message
- Tongue swelling is usually not serious, but if it is accompanied by difficulty breathing, it is an emergency. Go to the nearest hospital emergency department (ETU) immediately.
- Allergies are the main cause of a swollen tongue. If you know you are allergic to something, stay away from it.
- Injuries, infections, and deficiencies in certain vitamins (especially B12) can also cause a swollen tongue.
- If you have a new lump on your tongue, persistent pain, or other unusual symptoms, don't ignore it. Be sure to see your doctor for advice.
- In the case of any health problem, it is wiser to seek advice from a qualified physician rather than guessing and treating it yourself.
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