Burned Tongue: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of a burned tongue?

A burned tongue can be quite uncomfortable, and its symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the burn. Common symptoms include:

1. Pain: The most immediate and prominent symptom is a sharp or stinging pain in the tongue.
2. Swelling: The tongue may swell, making it difficult to speak or swallow.
3. Redness: The affected area of the tongue may appear red or irritated.
4. Blisters: In severe cases, blisters may form on the tongue, which can be very painful.
5. Loss of Taste: A burned tongue can temporarily affect your ability to taste food properly.
6. Difficulty Eating: The pain and swelling can make it difficult to eat or drink comfortably.
7. Sensitivity: The burned area may be sensitive to hot or spicy foods, causing further discomfort.

These symptoms typically improve within a few days as the tongue heals. However, severe burns or burns that don’t improve should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What are the causes of a burned tongue?

A burned tongue can result from various causes, including:

1. Hot Food or Drinks: Consuming food or drinks that are too hot can scald the tongue, leading to a burn.
2. Spicy Foods: Spicy foods can sometimes cause a burning sensation on the tongue, especially if you’re not used to them.
3. Acidic Foods: Foods that are highly acidic, such as citrus fruits or vinegar, can irritate the tongue and cause a burning sensation.
4. Chemical Burns: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in mouthwashes or certain medications, can cause a burning sensation on the tongue.
5. Burns from Smoking: Smoking can lead to burns on the tongue due to the heat and chemicals in tobacco.
6. Allergic Reactions: Some people may have allergic reactions to certain foods or substances that can cause a burning sensation on the tongue.
7. Infections: Infections such as oral thrush or herpes simplex can cause a burning sensation on the tongue.

It’s important to note that if you experience frequent or severe burns on your tongue, it may be a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

What is the treatment for a burned tongue?

Treatment for a burned tongue is aimed at relieving pain and promoting healing. Here are some common approaches:

1. Cooling: Immediately after burning your tongue, rinse your mouth with cold water or suck on ice chips to help soothe the burn and reduce swelling.
2. Avoid Hot or Spicy Foods: While your tongue is healing, avoid hot or spicy foods that can irritate the burn.
3. Over-the-counter Pain Relief: You can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Topical Anesthetics: Some over-the-counter creams or gels can help numb the tongue and reduce pain.
5. Avoid Irritants: Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and acidic or spicy foods that can further irritate the burned area.
6. Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean can help prevent infection and promote healing.
7. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist and aid in healing.

Most burns on the tongue heal within a few days to a week. However, if you experience severe pain, blistering, or the burn does not improve, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.