Mouth swelling
Mouth Swelling: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments
Mouth swelling is a general condition that can have many different causes. In most cases, mouth swelling is caused by infections, allergies, medically-induced edema, or trauma. It can affect the gums, lips, tongue, palate, or throat, and can affect one or both sides of the mouth.
Swelling of the mouth can range from mild to severe. In many cases, it can cause pain or difficulty eating and drinking. Mouth swelling may also lead to other symptoms, such as a fever, swollen lymph nodes, or difficulty breathing.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of mouth swelling include:
- Redness and inflammation
- Pain or discomfort in the mouth or throat
- Difficulty eating or drinking
- Swollen gums or lips
- Swollen tongue
- Swollen palate
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Difficulty breathing
Causes
Some of the most common causes of mouth swelling include:
- Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can all cause swelling in the mouth. These infections usually affect the throat, gums, or tongue.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to food, pollens, dust, or animal dander can cause swelling in the tongue, lips, or throat.
- Medication: Edema caused by certain medications can cause swelling in the mouth.
- Medical conditions: Autoimmune disorders, cancer, diabetes, and thyroid conditions can all cause swelling in the mouth.
- Trauma: Traumatic injuries, such as a fractured jaw or a cut in the mouth, can cause swelling and pain.
Treatments
Treatment for mouth swelling depends on the cause. Some of the most common treatments include:
- Antibiotics: Antibiotics are often used to treat bacterial or fungal infections. Antimicrobial mouthwash may also be prescribed.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Steroids: Steroids may be used to reduce inflammation caused by allergies or autoimmune disorders.
- Immunosuppressants: Immunosuppressants, such as prednisone, may be used to reduce the immune response and reduce swelling.
- Surgery: Surgery may be necessary to treat a traumatic injury or cancer.
It is important to seek medical attention if mouth swelling is persistent or severe. A physician can help determine the cause and provide the appropriate treatment.