Tongue inflammation
What Is Tongue Inflammation?
Tongue inflammation is a condition in which the tongue becomes swollen, painful and discolored. It can be caused by a range of conditions, from simple to serious. It is important to have your doctor diagnose and treat tongue inflammation, as it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.
Symptoms of Tongue Inflammation
Signs and symptoms of tongue inflammation include:
- Swelling of the tongue
- Pain or soreness of the tongue
- Discolored tongue (may be red or white)
- Fever
- Bad breath
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Drastic changes in taste perception
Causes of Tongue Inflammation
Tongue inflammation may be caused by several factors, such as:
- Infections such as oral thrush, syphilis, or oral herpes
- Allergies to certain foods, like nuts, eggs, or soy
- Malnutrition
- Tobacco use
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Burns or irritation of the tongue from hot food or drinks
- Abrasions from sharp or broken teeth or poorly-fitted dentures
- A reaction to certain medications
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Fungal or bacterial overgrowth in the mouth
Diagnosis and Treatment for Tongue Inflammation
If you experience any symptoms of tongue inflammation, it is important to see a doctor right away. Your doctor will perform a physical examination and may take a sample of any discharge from your mouth to test for infections. Blood tests may also be done to rule out any other underlying conditions.
Treatment of tongue inflammation will depend on the underlying cause. Your doctor may prescribe an anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics for infections, topical gels or creams, and lifestyle changes such as giving up smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and avoiding certain foods that may be causing the inflammation. In extreme cases, surgery may be required.