Why does the tongue swell in the mouth? Tongue hurts on the side: causes

Swelling of the tongue is a partial or complete increase in volume of the tongue. In this condition, it may look bloated and swollen. Swelling can occur over the entire surface or in some areas of the tongue. Such symptoms are characteristic of many diseases, ranging from minor mechanical trauma to allergies. Therefore, it is important to determine the reason why the tongue is swollen and prescribe the correct treatment. After all, if a slight partial swelling of the tip of the tongue, which occurs when biting, does not pose a threat to the patient’s life, then severe swelling of the tongue and larynx, which occurs during allergic conditions, can cause an attack of suffocation and even death.

Swelling of the tongue may indicate the development of many diseases, each of which is treated in its own way.

The main symptoms that may occur simultaneously with swelling:

• runny nose and sneezing;
• cough;
• the appearance of a rash on the body;
• itching in the mouth or respiratory tract;
• change in tongue color;
• change in taste sensations;
• painful sensations both on the tongue and in the mouth;
• feeling of heat, elevated temperature bodies;
• difficulty swallowing and breathing;
• feeling foreign body in the mouth.

If these symptoms appear, you should call an ambulance or a doctor, as they may indicate rapidly developing allergic reaction.

Swelling of the root of the tongue is especially dangerous. Since it is located directly next to the larynx, even slight swelling can block Airways!

No less dangerous are swelling of the palatine and small uvula. If assistance is not provided in a timely manner, a state of suffocation may occur, and it will be difficult to save the patient.

Causes

The causes of tongue swelling can be very diverse, ranging from injuries to allergies. It can be:

• mechanical trauma of the tongue;
• inflammation of the tongue or glossitis (causes and treatment of glossitis);
• infectious diseases;
• allergic reaction;
• anaphylactic shock;
• metabolic disease;
• diseases thyroid gland(hypothyroidism);
• genetic disorders (Down syndrome);
• malignant tumors (sarcoma, cancer oral cavity);
• injury due to uncomfortable dentures;
• piercing;
• pellagra;
• pernicious anemia;
• pituitary disorders.

Only experienced doctor can differentiate diseases of the oral cavity that cause swelling of the tongue.

Swelling of the tongue and throat can be dangerous to the health and life of the patient. Don't self-medicate! At the first sign of swelling, you should consult a doctor for help. If swelling develops too quickly and begins to make breathing difficult, call ambulance to avoid suffocation.

Treatment

For maximum effective treatment And quick relief the patient's condition, the real cause of the swelling should be established. Let's consider treatment options depending on the causes of swelling:

• Swelling of the tongue caused by mechanical trauma usually goes away on its own within a few days. During this time, you should limit your consumption of spicy and hot foods and rinse your mouth with antiseptic solutions.
• If the swelling is caused by glossitis, first of all you need to relieve the inflammation. It is necessary to rinse your mouth thoroughly, take antibiotics and antifungal drugs.
• In the presence of infectious diseases, the underlying disease should be treated, and a swollen tongue should be treated as accompanying symptom will go away on its own.
• In case of an allergic reaction, the patient's contact with the allergen should be eliminated as quickly as possible, and antihistamine, a sedative, and call a doctor.
• At anaphylactic shock Call an ambulance immediately, as seconds may count.
• In case of metabolic disorders and thyroid diseases, the underlying diseases should be treated first of all. The swelling of the tongue will go away on its own as the patient recovers.
• For genetic disorders, treatment is symptomatic; the doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory and antihistamine drugs to alleviate the patient's condition.
• In the presence of malignant tumors Treatment is carried out by an oncologist; it includes treatment of the underlying disease and alleviation of the patient’s condition.
• Very often swelling of the tongue causes piercing. In this case, a small tumor is considered normal, because piercing is, in fact, the most common mechanical injury to the tongue. The piercing specialist must prescribe antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent the development of the inflammatory process. Swelling after a piercing usually goes away on its own as the wound heals.

Allergic

A swollen tongue due to allergies most often occurs after taking medicines, as well as when consuming certain foods. If the cause of swelling is a medication, you should immediately stop taking it and replace it with another drug. In parallel, antihistamines and calcium supplements should be prescribed.

If you are allergic to food, you should do the same - stop eating foods causing allergies, start taking antihistamines.

You can also use folk remedies against allergies. However, it should be remembered that swelling of the tongue and lips, swelling of half the tongue, as well as swelling under the tongue can cause suffocation, so self-medication should be done very carefully and only in cases where the swelling is small and does not make breathing or swallowing difficult. In all other cases, you should consult a doctor immediately.

The most effective folk remedy is rinsing the mouth with a decoction of sage, calendula or chamomile. They have antibacterial effect and help calm the inflammatory process.

Juice from raw potatoes. You should rinse your mouth with freshly squeezed juice.

Angioedema

Angioedema has allergic origin and develops extremely quickly, sometimes in a matter of seconds. This is the most dangerous of all types of edema, as it often spreads not only to the tongue, but also to the larynx, causing attacks of suffocation.

With angioedema, not only the tongue often swells, but also the face, cheeks, lips, and eyelids. The patient's skin becomes bluish and the eyes begin to water.

If swelling spreads to the pharynx and larynx, it can cause asphyxia. The patient experiences difficulty breathing, to the point of being unable to breathe on his own. In this case, it is necessary to perform a tracheostomy or intubation. Since only a qualified doctor can do this, at the first sign of rapidly developing swelling of the tongue or face, you should immediately call an ambulance. Before her arrival, the victim should be given antihistamines, preferably administered intravenously. The airways should be cleared of accumulated mucus, facilitating easier breathing. The victim's head should be slightly elevated to avoid blocking the airway with a swollen tongue.

The tongue is an organ in the mouth that consists almost entirely of muscle tissue. Part of its surface contains taste buds, and it performs important functions when chewing, swallowing and speaking. Swelling of the tongue is a pathology in which its volume begins to exceed its standard dimensions.

If the swelling occurs instantly, it may be a sign of an acute anaphylactic reaction. Otherwise, there are a number of other factors, from illness to injury, that could cause a swollen tongue.

Symptoms and causes of tongue swelling

A swollen tongue may be accompanied by a number of other alarming symptoms. symptoms, depending on what caused such a reaction.

The following symptoms may appear:

• an allergic reaction may result in a runny nose, cough, abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting;
• in other cases, you should pay attention to increased body temperature, headache, swelling, signs of hypothyroidism, changes in color and sensitivity of the tongue;

A swollen tongue can be a sign of many diseases.

Should Call an ambulance immediately in cases where swelling of the tongue occurs simultaneously with the following phenomena:

• itchy throat and difficulty swallowing;
• nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath and suffocation;
• blueness and swelling of the eyes, lips and fingers;
• continuous fainting;
• coughing up blood;
• profuse rashes all over the body or in a specific area.

There are a huge number of reasons for a swollen tongue., but almost all of them can be divided into several large groups:

1. Infectious. These include thrush, syphilis, streptococcus and herpes virus.
2. Allergic. Mention should be made here of the anaphylactic reaction to specific types food, insect bites and taking a number of medications.
3. Traumatic. Swelling can be caused by physical damage from a bite, burn, or inflammation from an uncomfortable denture.
4. Others. Range possible reasons It's quite wide here. These include the following diseases:

• genetic (agioneurotic edema, Down and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndromes);
• oncological (neurofibroma, sarcoma, cancer);
• pituitary disorders;
• pernicious anemia and pellagra caused by a lack of vitamin B3;
• other hormonal and congenital ailments.

A swollen tongue may change to a brighter color

Measures for tongue swelling

The use of certain methods of treatment depends on the cause of tongue swelling:

• when traumatic injury , the swelling goes away on its own after a few days, you just need to avoid eating hot and spicy foods, and also take antiseptic drugs to avoid infection of the oral cavity;
• when glossitis of the tongue occurs, the inflammation is controlled through the use of antibiotic and antifungal drugs;
• if edema is a symptom of a disorder of the thyroid gland and metabolism or an infectious disease, then If the root cause is treated, the swelling will disappear on its own;
• installation of a piercing is also a trauma to the body, and if oral care conditions are followed, swelling after the procedure will go away within a few days.

In those cases when the symptoms cause the greatest concern and require calling an ambulance, you cannot hesitate. If a patient experiences anaphylactic shock, then in addition to the tongue, swelling can spread to other organs of the oral cavity and respiratory system, causing suffocation and rapid death of a person.

To achieve effective positive effect You should regularly rinse your mouth with anti-inflammatory drugs and monitor your oral health.

Swelling of the tongue

Tongue edema is a condition in which the tongue increases in size. The entire tongue may swell, or one area - the tip, base (root of the tongue), one side - left or right.

Sometimes swelling spreads to the larynx, gums, palate, lips, and taste buds on the tongue. Extensive swelling can cause difficulty breathing, eating, and speaking.

Weak and short-lived enlargement of the tongue is most often a manifestation of a common infection or minor injury. But if the swelling does not subside, this may indicate serious problem with health.

Signs of tongue swelling

Here is a list of symptoms that may accompany tongue swelling:

• difficulties chewing, swallowing, talking;
• changing its color;
• difficulty breathing in case of severe swelling;
• swollen The lymph nodes under the lower jaw;
• bumps, ulcers, and irritated areas may appear on the tongue;
• pain and burning sensation in the tongue and throat;
• fever, chills and headache;
• bleeding even with slight injuries to the tongue;
• swelling of the lips, throat, gums, and taste buds on the tongue.

There are many reasons that lead to swelling of the tongue, we will list the most common ones.

The most common cause of a swollen tongue is injury (accidental biting, burns, damage from dental instruments, recovery from oral surgery, piercing).

Tongue injuries often occur during attacks of epileptic seizures. The jaw reflexively clenches and bites it. Caregivers can damage the tongue while trying to prevent the epileptic from swallowing it.

Chewing tobacco also irritates the tongue and can cause swelling.

Allergic edema

A common cause of swelling is allergies. The tongue swells after eating allergenic foods or being stung by a bee or wasp. Other allergens are ACE inhibitor drugs used for heart diseases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen).

With allergic urticaria, which can be caused by any allergen, there is a strong feeling of itching and the tongue becomes blistered.

Allergic edema usually develops suddenly. Often not only the tongue swells, but also the lips and gums, swelling appears on the face, and the eyelids swell.

Other symptoms of an allergic reaction are sneezing, runny nose, cough, skin rash, gastrointestinal symptoms (vomiting, stomach upset).

A serious allergic reaction, anaphylactic shock, develops very quickly. Symptoms that require immediate medical attention include swelling of the larynx, shortness of breath, rapid breathing, strong pain, severe swelling at the site of allergen injection.

Diseases

There are a number of diseases that can lead to tongue swelling.

Amyloidosis is a disorder of protein metabolism that often develops in older people. With this disease, the tongue gradually enlarges and swelling persists for a long time.

For early stage Tongue cancer is characterized by painless ulcers and bumps on this organ, as well as reddened areas or white spots on the surface of the mucous membrane. The tongue gradually increases in size.

More late stages the diseases are accompanied by pain, bleeding from the mouth, numbness in certain areas of the oral cavity, and a constantly sore throat. Problems with eating and speech quickly arise.

Tongue cancer can be successfully treated if the disease is diagnosed early enough. If you notice similar symptoms that last more than two weeks, you should consult a doctor.

Herpes virus

The symptom of herpes is not only a “cold on the lips”. At herpetic lesion tongue swelling is usually accompanied by pain and the appearance of blisters on the surface of the tongue.

The blisters disappear in one to two weeks, but antiviral medications such as acyclovir can speed healing.

Fungal infection

Fungal infections of the oral cavity often occur in children, in adults after treatment with antibiotics, or when immune defenses are weakened.

With oral thrush, the tongue is covered with areas of thick white coating that are difficult to remove. Often the tongue is swollen and painful.

Fungal infections are quickly and easily treated antifungal drugs, for example, using fluconazole. If thrush occurs frequently in an adult, you should check your immune status and get tested for HIV.

Thyroid deficiency (hypothyroidism)

Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder in which thyroid does not produce enough hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism - fatigue, depression, dryness skin, weight gain, muscle weakness, joint pain, thinning hair.

Sometimes, with thyroid deficiency, swelling of the face is observed. The tongue swells and teeth marks are often visible along the edges.

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that most often occurs in children between the ages of five and fifteen. Symptoms of the disease are a small red rash, sore throat, nausea, high temperature, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. On the second to fourth day, the tongue becomes smooth, bright red and swollen. Sometimes the tongue is initially coated with a white or yellow coating, which disappears after a few days, leaving a smooth, crimson-colored surface.

Inflammation of the tongue (glossitis)

When inflamed, the tongue increases in size, the surface becomes smooth and burgundy. There is a pale white coating.

Inflammation develops against the background of allergies, after injury. The development of glossitis can be provoked by infection, burns from hot food, alcohol abuse, insufficient saliva, smoking, and hormonal factors.

Ways to combat glossitis are good oral hygiene and a gentle diet. If the inflammation is infectious, antibiotics are prescribed.

Angioedema

Angioedema is a condition of an allergic nature, but is sometimes inherited. As a rule, the lips, mouth, throat, and tongue are involved in the process. There is no itching, skin color does not change. The size of the swelling increases rapidly. Unlike urticaria, this type of allergic reaction affects a deeper layer of tissue. If swelling affects the mucous membrane of the throat, suffocation and death can occur.

Other diseases that cause swelling of the tongue

Below is a list of other medical conditions that can cause tongue swelling

• Infection due to advanced caries
• Herpangina with ulcers caused by the Coxsackie virus
• Anemia caused by vitamin B12 deficiency
• Multiple myeloma
• Kawasaki syndrome
• Streptococcal infection
• Syphilis
• Problems with the pituitary gland
• Rhabdomyolysis
• Leukemia
• Neurofibromatosis type 1 or oral neurofibroma
• Sarcoma
• Inflammation of the taste buds on the tongue
• Genetic diseases such as Down syndrome or Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome

Swelling of the tongue due to dehydration

With a lack of fluid in the body (dehydration), a feeling of dryness occurs in the mouth, the tongue increases in size and becomes covered with cracks. Other symptoms of dehydration include dry and cracked lips, loose dry skin, bright yellow urine, burning when urinating.

If such symptoms appear, you should drink enough fluids. Dehydration is a serious condition that can lead to death.

Causes based on the location of the swelling

Swelling under the tongue (“ball under the tongue”)

If swelling occurs under the tongue, this indicates a problem with the salivary glands. There are many reasons for this condition - infection, stones in salivary glands, parotitis(mumps), HIV, influenza, parainfluenza type 1 or 2, herpes, tumor, poor hygiene oral cavity.

Swelling on one side of the tongue

Unilateral swelling of the tongue does not indicate a specific disease; it can also be caused by a number of diseases - bacterial infection, herpes virus, tumor.

Sometimes one side of the tongue swells after an injury - a burn, a bite, or after surgical intervention. An allergic reaction and angioedema often affects a specific area of ​​the tongue - the tip, left or right side.

Swollen tongue after piercing

After a piercing puncture, the tongue swells. The swelling usually subsides within a few days.

But if the piercing causes infection in the tissue of the tongue, it may remain swollen for several months or even years. Signs of a bacterial infection include redness, discharge from the tongue, bleeding, abscesses, bumps or blisters on the tongue.

Edema in children

Swelling of the tongue in children can be caused by many reasons - allergies, injury, inflammation, dehydration. If swelling occurs, you should consult a doctor.

Swelling with teeth marks around the edges

Sometimes the swollen tongue shows marks from the teeth along the edges. This language occurs when there is a lack useful substances in the body, problems with the thyroid gland, water retention in the body (due to diabetes, enlargement or inflammation of the liver). Sometimes the condition can be caused by problems with the spleen, which is often accompanied by bloating and excess weight. If the problem is the spleen, then eating foods that are healthy for it (vegetables, herbs) can help.

Swelling of the tongue and sore throat

Swelling of the tongue in combination with a sore throat may be a sign of an allergic reaction, Quincke's edema, oral infection, mononucleosis, or oral cancer.

In an allergic reaction, a sore throat is accompanied by difficulty breathing, rash, and runny nose. Symptoms viral mononucleosis– increased temperature, feeling tired, enlarged and painful lymph nodes, headache.

Treatment for tongue swelling depends on the cause of the condition.

Treatment of allergic edema

In case of allergic edema, first of all, you need to determine the allergen substance and eliminate contact with the allergen. Antihistamines and corticosteroids are used to treat allergies. In case of severe swelling, methylprednisolone, Benadryl, and adrenaline injections are used.

Treatment of infectious edema

To treat infectious swelling, you should consult a doctor. Bacterial infections treated with antibiotics, viral diseases medications are prescribed to reduce the symptoms of a viral infection.

Traumatic edema

Serious tongue injuries require medical intervention– you need to stop the bleeding and reduce swelling. For minor injuries, you can apply a piece of ice to the tongue and use painkillers.

Treatment with home remedies

When treating edema, various home remedies that happen to be at hand can be used.

• To care for your tongue, use a soft toothbrush. Use a brush to gently clean your tongue periodically.
• A lump of sugar on the tongue can reduce swelling.
• A diluted turmeric solution (water and turmeric powder) reduces inflammation. Rinsing your mouth with a solution sea ​​salt helps with both viral and bacterial infections.
• Another recipe is to use a mixture of mint, anise and rosemary for rinsing.
• Salt intake should be reduced as salty foods stimulate saliva production, which can cause problems if the tongue is swollen.
• Add chopped celery to your food.
• Drink small amounts of water regularly.
• Swelling can be reduced by placing a chilled spoon or ice cube on the tongue.

When to see a doctor

If swelling of the tongue has spread to the larynx, accompanied by suffocation, hemoptysis, or a feeling of constriction in the throat, you should immediately consult a doctor. You also need to undergo an examination if the swelling of the tongue does not go away for more than two weeks.

What to do if your tongue is swollen, what are the causes of this condition?

Swelling of the tongue causes a person considerable discomfort, since this organ is involved in many vital functions. important processes– nutrition, digestion and speech. Severe swelling of the entire tongue muscle can cause difficulty breathing, which can lead to serious complications. In some cases, a short period of time will be sufficient. symptomatic treatment, and in others you will need to cope with the disease that caused such a disorder.

Symptoms and diagnosis

There are many genetic reasons that can provoke tongue hypertrophy, but almost always such a deviation is registered in a person from birth or early years life. In all other situations, a suddenly swollen tongue indicates some kind of pathological abnormality in the functioning of either the muscle itself or some organ (system) in the body. Modern medicine interprets acquired causes of tongue swelling according to the following classification:

• metabolic;
• inflammatory;
• systemic;
• traumatic;
• neoplastic;
• infiltrative.

For an initial diagnosis, a specialist will need to analyze visible changes in the oral cavity, and also interview the patient. First of all, the doctor will pay attention to speech, chewing and swallowing disorders, as well as possible profuse salivation. Another likely symptom may be difficulty breathing, especially during sleep (sleep apnea).

If the tongue is severely swollen, the patient may be referred for an MRI.

Has a significant role in making a diagnosis appearance the entire oral cavity and specifically the tongue, in addition to its swelling: color, surface condition, presence of plaque or defects - ulcers, erosions, aphthae. Massive swelling will inevitably cause it to open mouth will protrude beyond the dentition, and when closed it will rest against it. For this reason, imprints of the patient's teeth are often found on the tip.

Causes and treatment will be determined based on the results of studies and tests performed to complement the visual examination. There are no specific laboratory tests that can confirm or refute hypertrophic enlargement of the tongue, so the doctor will resort to the following methods:

• extraoral or intraoral radiography of teeth and jaws;
• X-ray of the respiratory system;
• assessment of swallowing function;
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland;
• CT and MRI - both in case of serious breathing or swallowing disorders, and in case of suspected tumor formation;
• ECG and EchoCG, allowing for difficulty breathing differential diagnosis with heart disease.

Computed tomography is preferable to MRI either if the swelling occurs suddenly and requires urgent elimination, or if the swelling occurs in a small child (due to the need to use sedatives for MRI).

Important! A biopsy can also be used for diagnosis, but it should be used only in specific situations: the puncture method will be uninformative, and a surgical biopsy is associated with the risk of bleeding from the lingual arteries.

The tongue may become swollen due to glossitis.

Glossitis - infectious inflammatory disease, due to which the tongue may visibly swell, and a coating of one shade or another will appear on its surface. In addition to problems with articulation and nutrition, patients often complain of itching, burning and pain in the tongue, which are caused by erosive lesions (which can affect the entire oral mucosa). It is also likely to appear low-grade fever, enlargement of local lymph nodes, nausea and general weakness.

If the tongue is swollen due to glossitis, the reasons always lie in the penetration of infectious agents into this organ, but the routes of invasion may vary depending on the type of disease. Most often, the disease is provoked by streptococci and staphylococci, which are activated due to poor oral hygiene, have entered the tissue due to mechanical damage, or have multiplied due to weakened immunity.

But in some cases, swelling of the tongue occurs due to microorganisms that caused the disease internal organs– lungs, liver, gastrointestinal tract and others. In this case, it will be necessary to first treat this disease, otherwise the elimination of swelling of the tongue will be only temporary.

Most full classification Types of glossitis today include the following types:

• diamond-shaped;
• desquamative;
• hypertrophic;
• mycotic;
• Gunter's;
• traumatic;
• villous;
• ulcerative;
• herpetic;
• catarrhal;
• atrophic;
• folded

Treatment of glossitis involves eliminating not only the cause of inflammation, but also its consequences, for which you will need to carry out a thorough cleaning of the entire oral cavity, including teeth, and then resort to drug therapy. This, depending on the type of disease, will include the use of antibiotics, antiseptic solutions, anesthetics, antifungal or antibacterial agents.

Note! Rinsing with various natural decoctions and following a certain diet, the details of which will be determined by the doctor, will also be useful.

Traumatic injury

After piercing, swelling lasts for about a week.

The second most common reason for tongue swelling is mechanical damage. In everyday life, this most often occurs as a result of biting the tongue with teeth or being burned by a hot liquid (food). Slightly less common cases chemical burns, as well as enlargement and redness due to the installation of the piercing.

It is possible that the injury was caused by an iatrogenic factor - the tongue was accidentally touched during any medical procedure performed in the oral cavity by a dentist or surgeon. Tracheal intubation can also cause damage, especially if it is provided to the patient as an emergency without taking all precautions.

Additional Information. In rare cases, the fact that the tongue is swollen can be caused by radiation therapy, namely the treatment of malignant tumors using one of the types of radiation exposure.

Other Possible Causes

The tongue may become swollen due to an allergic reaction.

Some people experience a swollen tongue due to an allergic reaction called angioedema. It can be triggered by various biological or chemical factors such as medications, food, insect bites, contact with certain natural or synthetic materials. Quincke's edema is considered a health and life-threatening disease, so the patient must immediately take antihistamines and seek medical help.

An increase in the size of the tongue is often caused by hormonal disorders in the body, the most common of which are hypothyroidism and diabetes. Swelling of the tongue is also likely in patients with cancer, amyloidosis, or sarcoidosis. The tongue may also become swollen due to the following: reasons: syphilis in the mouth, amoebic dysentery, pneumonia, acute rheumatism, smallpox, tuberculosis, scurvy, pellagra, uremia, acromegaly.

Tongue enlargement can be passive and caused by tooth loss lower jaw. It develops rather slowly, and the degree of its severity depends on the length of the section of the alveolar arch that is devoid of teeth.

Why does the tongue swell - what to do?

The tissues of the oral cavity are quite sensitive, susceptible to various irritants, allergens, pathogenic microorganisms. Swelling of the tongue can be caused by injury, infectious processes oropharynx, exicosis, malocclusion and gastrointestinal diseases. Unpleasant sensations in the mouth can be eliminated with therapeutic measures.

To avoid consequences, you need to find out the cause of tongue swelling

Causes of tongue swelling

With swelling, the entire tongue or only a separate area may become enlarged; in some pathologies, the larynx and oral mucosa also swell. A short-term enlargement of the taste organ is a consequence of injury or infectious pathology, but if the swelling does not go away for a long time, this may indicate the presence of serious diseases.

Why does a tumor occur?

1. Injuries are the most common cause of swelling; they occur after biting, burns, or against the background of injuries caused by dental activities And surgical interventions oral cavity, after piercing, swelling with teeth marks on the tongue - a consequence epileptic seizure. The pathology is accompanied by pain, bleeding, burning.
2. Allergies, Quincke's edema - develops suddenly after consuming allergens, medications, insect bites, swelling spreads to the gums and cheeks. The swollen organ of taste becomes covered with blisters and ulcers, itching and burning appear. Additional signs– rhinitis, lacrimation, cough, rashes, diarrhea.
3. Angioedema is a consequence of allergies; the pathology can be hereditary. The tumor spreads to the throat.
4. Dehydration – severe dry mouth causes the tongue to become enlarged, and cracks appear on the surface of the taste organ and lips. Other signs of a lack of fluid in the body are severe thirst at night or immediately after waking up, the skin becomes loose, the amount of urine decreases, and urine becomes bright yellow during bowel movements. Bladder a burning sensation may occur.
5. Malocclusion.
6. Pathologies gastrointestinal tract– colitis, ulcers, enterocolitis, gastritis with high acidity, all these diseases are accompanied by the appearance of swelling and white plaque.

Physical damage to the tongue - common reasons the appearance of edema

What diseases can cause a swollen tongue?

Many infectious pathologies inflammatory processes internal organs provoke swelling of the organ of taste. The tumor is formed due to caries, stomatitis, anemia, syphilis, streptococcal infection, leukemia, sarcoma; in children, the problem often occurs with Down syndrome and mononucleosis.

What diseases can cause swelling:

1. Amyloidosis - problems with protein metabolism are more common in older people; the tumor grows gradually, but does not go away for a long time.
2. Herpes - the appearance of characteristic blisters near the lips is accompanied by swelling and pain of the tongue, and a rash also appears on its surface. The disease may go away on its own within 1–2 weeks, but drug therapy will speed up the recovery process.
3. Oral candidiasis - fungal pathologies occur in children and adults after antibacterial therapy, with weakened immunity. Thrush is accompanied by the appearance of a white coating in the oral cavity, which is difficult to remove; the organ of taste hurts, itches, and swells. the root of the tongue swells.
4. Thyroid pathologies - hypothyroidism is accompanied by weakness, apathy, the skin becomes dry, weight increases, and pain appears in the joints and muscles. Sometimes the face swells, teeth marks can be seen on the swollen tongue, the throat is ticklish and sore.
5. Scarlet fever - bacterial pathology, most often it is diagnosed in childhood and adolescence. The throat becomes inflamed, the temperature rises, and cervical lymph nodes, a rash appears, white or yellow plaque. A few days after the first symptoms of the disease appear, the surface of the taste organ becomes smooth, swollen, and the tongue becomes bright red.
6. Glossitis - inflammation of the taste organ is accompanied by its increase in size, it becomes burgundy, smooth, wooden, and swelling occurs around the frenulum. The disease occurs against the background of allergic reactions, injuries, infections, burns, after drinking alcohol, and with a small amount of saliva.
7. Tongue cancer - on initial stage As the disease progresses, the surface becomes covered with tubercles, small ulcers, red or light gray spots appear, the taste organ gradually becomes larger, and there are no unpleasant sensations. As the pathology develops, pain and bleeding appear, certain areas begin to go numb, the throat becomes inflamed, and the tongue gets in the way in the mouth.

Herpes on the lips can cause swelling of the tongue and spread to it

Some features of swelling of the taste organ

Most often the tumor affects the entire tongue, but sometimes swelling forms in certain places. What an enlarged tongue looks like in various pathologies can be seen in the photo.

A compaction under the tongue in the form of a ball, swelling of the lower palate indicates pathological processes in the salivary glands, which can occur when infectious diseases, mumps, flu, herpes, poor care behind the oral cavity.

A lump under the tongue indicates problems with the salivary glands

Unilateral swelling, swelling on the tip of the tongue occurs due to injuries, bites, Quincke's edema, after tooth extraction, after operations, against the background of bacterial and viral pathologies.

Swelling with clear teeth marks around the edges and bruising occurs with vitamin deficiency, diabetes, liver disease, and dysfunction of the spleen.

Which doctor should I contact?

If the tongue is swollen due to an allergy, the help of an allergist is required; a traumatologist treats injuries; in the presence of pathologies of the oral cavity, therapy is carried out by a dentist.

Referral to a specialist to help cope with tongue swelling depends on the cause of the symptom.

Additionally, consultation with an immunologist, oncologist, or infectious disease specialist may be required.

Diagnostics

The initial diagnosis is made based on external examination tongue, oral cavity, but in order to accurately identify the cause of discomfort, they undergo a comprehensive examination.

Diagnostic methods:

• biochemical, hormonal, general analysis blood;
• test for tumor markers, tissue biopsy;
• bacterial culture of an oral smear;
• PCR and ELISA to identify the type of pathogen;
• Ultrasound of the digestive system;
• X-ray, CT, MRI of the jaw.

Frequent manifestations of thrush in the mouth are a signal for a more thorough examination of the body.

Treatment of a swollen tongue

The choice of methods and means of therapy depends on the reasons that provoked the edema; in the treatment, medications are used that complement traditional recipes.

Medicine for swelling of the tongue

The goal of drug therapy is to eliminate the discomfort and the underlying disease that caused the enlargement of the tongue.

How to treat swelling:

• antihistamines – Diazolin, Claritin, Eufillin;
• medications with corticosteroids - Prednisolone, prescribed for severe swelling;
• antibacterial agents – Tetracycline, Ampicillin;
• antiviral drugs– Acyclovir;
• antifungal drugs – Fluconazole;
• painkillers – Ibuprofen, Nise, Kamistad gel;
• antiseptic solutions for rinsing and lotions - Miramistin, Chlorophyllipt, Chlorhexidine;
• immunomodulators and vitamins.

Diazolin is prescribed for the drug treatment of tongue swelling

At cancerous tumors Tongue surgery is performed, after which chemotherapy and radiotherapy are prescribed.

Folk remedies for tongue swelling

If your tongue has increased in size, then remedies will help to cope with swelling, inflammation, pain and irritation alternative medicine, for severe pathologies they are used in combination with medications.

How to get rid of a tongue tumor at home:

1. Peel and grind several raw potato tubers in a blender, squeeze out the juice, and use it for rinsing or lotions. Carry out the procedure 3–5 times a day. You can also rinse your mouth with warm horseradish juice, only it is first diluted with an equal amount of water.
2. In case of a bite, ulcers, after piercing, tooth extraction, soda will help cope with unpleasant sensations - dissolve 15 g of the product in 220 ml of water, use the solution to rinse 4-6 times a day.
3. Chamomile has an anti-inflammatory effect - brew 200 ml of boiling water and 15 g of dry inflorescences, leave in a closed container for 20 minutes, rinse your mouth every 3-4 hours.
4. Pour 250 ml of water 2 tsp. chopped basil, simmer the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, leave for an hour, strain. Take 50 ml orally three times a day, can be used as a rinse solution.
5. Mix 30 g of cottage cheese with an equal amount of sour cream, add 1 chopped clove of garlic. Wrap the mixture in gauze, apply a compress to your tongue, and keep it there for at least 5 hours.
6. Apply a cotton pad moistened with warm sea buckthorn oil to your tongue for 10 minutes.

Apply compresses with sea buckthorn oil to your tongue to relieve swelling.

Possible consequences and complications

All pathologies that provoke swelling of the tongue are easily treated drug treatment, but in the absence of proper therapy, serious complications can occur.

Why is a tongue tumor dangerous?

• serious breathing problems;
• violation of diction;
• deterioration of the digestive tract;
• complete tooth destruction, jaw deformation;
• development of an abscess against the background of a protracted purulent process;
• increased salivation.

With absence proper treatment Complete tooth decay may occur

Proper oral care, regular visits to the dentist and other specialized specialists, balanced diet, compliance drinking regime will help avoid swelling of the tongue.

Swelling and swelling of the tongue is a common problem that occurs after dental surgery, eating hot food, after biting; in such cases, the discomfort goes away on its own within a few days. But if the compaction grows, it is accompanied by other unpleasant symptoms, you need to consult a doctor, timely treatment will help avoid the development of severe complications.

Tongue edema is a condition in which the tongue may become partially or completely swollen and enlarged. Its color can vary from bluish to dark red, depending on the cause of the swelling. In most cases, this condition is dangerous and requires medical intervention, since a swollen tongue can lead to suffocation.

Quincke's edema is the most dangerous swelling, as it can cause suffocation

Causes of swelling

Various types of injuries:

• domestic injury due to habitual tongue biting;
• malocclusion;
• incorrectly installed dentures;
• tongue piercing;
• chemical or thermal burn.

Inflammatory diseases:

1. Stomatitis is a disease of the oral mucosa, accompanied by painful wounds and ulcers. It occurs due to various infections, viruses and fungi entering the oral cavity, as well as due to damage to the oral mucosa by hot or hard food.
2. Glossitis. A disease in which the shape, size and structure of the tongue changes. The speech organ can increase in size up to 2 times, and it is also covered with numerous folds, cracks and grooves. The disease is both congenital and acquired.

Thyroid disease causes swelling of the tongue and throat

Thyroid disease and pituitary gland disorder. These diseases are related to each other, since it is the pituitary gland that is responsible for endocrine glands, including the thyroid gland. Any disturbances in the pituitary gland or thyroid gland lead to hormonal imbalance. The production of hormones responsible for growth and proper development organs. With hypothyroidism - decreased functioning of the thyroid gland, the tongue and larynx often swell.

Allergic reaction. An oral organ may become swollen due to an allergy to a product or drug. In rare cases, angioedema can occur, which also causes swelling of the larynx, which can lead to suffocation.

Quincke's edema in a child is very dangerous condition for life

Gastrointestinal diseases. Increased acidity, ulcer, gastritis and colitis are common causes of tongue swelling.

Tumor. One of the most unpleasant reasons swelling of an organ of the oral cavity is a benign or malignant tumor. This tumor is most often diagnosed in people who abuse smoking and very hot foods. In 70% of cases, the tumor affects the tongue muscle on the sides, in 20% the root of the tongue and in 10% the tip of the tongue.

Tumor salivary gland- cause of tongue swelling

Treatment of tongue swelling

Malocclusion, piercing

If the injury is related to dentures or bite, you should visit your dentist, who will decide this problem. For normal biting, you need to stop the bleeding with hydrogen peroxide. With piercings, swelling is normal for the first 2 days. At this time, it is advisable to rinse your mouth with any antiseptics.

Swelling after piercing lasts several days

But if the swelling is accompanied by a burning sensation at the puncture site, the wound turns red or pus begins to ooze, you should immediately consult a doctor, as infection is possible.

Tongue burn

If the tongue is swollen due to a thermal or chemical burn, a certain sequence of actions must be followed. At thermal burn you need to rinse your mouth immediately cold water, you can apply ice, and after 15-20 minutes treat your tongue with an antiseptic and take any analgesic, since strong painful sensations. If the oral organ has been damaged chemical, it needs to be neutralized. Alkali is neutralized with acids (for example, table vinegar), and acids with a solution of soda. After providing first aid, you should consult a doctor and make sure that chemicals do not enter the esophagus.

Ice on the tongue will help relieve pain after a burn.

Stomatitis

With stomatitis, multiple swellings can form on the tongue, which sometimes develop into ulcers.

Treatment of stomatitis is usually prescribed by a dentist based on the degree of the disease and the cause. In case of fungal infection, antimycotic drugs are prescribed oral medications. At viral infection mucous membranes, local antiviral drugs (sprays, gels) or general action(pills). All this is accompanied by mandatory rinsing of the mouth with hydrogen peroxide in case of bleeding or antiseptics. Treatment usually takes 5–7 days, after which the symptoms disappear and the tongue returns to its normal appearance.

Soda and honey - folk remedies for treating stomatitis

Glossitis

With a disease such as glossitis, an enlarged tongue poses a certain threat, because it can easily block the airways. In addition, cracks in it accumulate food debris and numerous bacteria, which makes it vulnerable to new diseases. Treatment for glossitis is most often recommended surgically. Using a laser, folds and excess tissue are removed, after which antiseptic gels and solutions are used. Healing of the mucous membrane occurs quite quickly, and the tongue takes on a more acceptable appearance and also decreases in size.

Swelling with desquamative glossitis

Thyroid problems

Treatment of tongue swelling in case of thyroid problems should be carried out by a qualified endocrinologist. The doctor will definitely prescribe an ultrasound of the thyroid gland and hormone tests. Sometimes an MRI or CT scan of the brain may be needed to determine if there are any pathological changes in the pituitary gland.

Allergic swelling of the tongue

Treatment allergic edema tongue treatment is carried out with the help of antihistamines (for example, Diazolin, Suprastin) and diuretics. In case of Quincke's edema, it is necessary to urgently call an ambulance; doctors should administer an anti-allergy drug intravenously. Before the ambulance arrives, you need to take a position so that your head is tilted slightly to the side and forward, so that the swollen tongue does not interfere with breathing.

Child is allergic to strawberries

After the symptoms have been relieved, you should identify which product or drug you are allergic to and eliminate it from use.

Problems with the gastrointestinal tract

If the tongue is swollen due to gastrointestinal problems, it is imperative to identify and treat the root cause, otherwise local remedies They will only alleviate the condition a little, but the swelling will remain. Treatment should be carried out by a gastroenterologist who can select the right regimen. It is also necessary to follow a certain diet, not to irritate the stomach and organs of the oral cavity with acute and sour foods, which will only worsen the disease.

When diagnosing a tumor, the doctor determines its stage and selects the appropriate treatment, which is most often combined and includes radiation therapy, chemotherapy and surgery.

Hypertrophic glossitis - swelling of the tongue due to chronic diseases

The tongue is a kind of litmus test for the body. If it is swollen, this indicates that there is a failure in some organs and measures must be taken to treat them.

You shouldn’t leave things to chance and expect that the language will take its previous form on its own. As mentioned above, to provide first aid for swelling of the tongue, you should keep it in home medicine cabinet hydrogen peroxide, antiseptic solutions, antihistamines. The main thing for swelling of the tongue is to identify the causes in time and begin treatment, so it is important to undergo a comprehensive medical checkup semiannually.

Swelling of the tongue causes a person considerable discomfort, since this organ is involved in many vital processes - nutrition, digestion and speech. Severe swelling of the entire tongue muscle can cause difficulty breathing, which can lead to serious complications. In some cases, short-term symptomatic treatment will be sufficient, while in others it will be necessary to cope with the disease that caused such a disorder.

There are many genetic reasons that can provoke tongue hypertrophy, but almost always such a deviation is registered in a person from birth or early years of life. In all other situations, a suddenly swollen tongue indicates some kind of pathological abnormality in the functioning of either the muscle itself or some organ (system) in the body. Modern medicine interprets acquired causes of tongue swelling according to the following classification:

• metabolic;
• inflammatory;
• systemic;
• traumatic;
• neoplastic;
• infiltrative.

For an initial diagnosis, a specialist will need to analyze visible changes in the oral cavity, as well as conduct a survey of the patient. First of all, the doctor will pay attention to speech, chewing and swallowing disorders, as well as possible excessive salivation. Another likely symptom may be difficulty breathing, especially during sleep (sleep apnea).

If the tongue is severely swollen, the patient may be referred for an MRI.

The appearance of the entire oral cavity and specifically the tongue, in addition to its swelling, plays a significant role in making a diagnosis: color, surface condition, the presence of plaque or defects - ulcers, erosions, aphthae. Massive swelling will inevitably lead to the fact that when the mouth is open it will protrude beyond the dentition, and when closed it will rest against it. For this reason, imprints of the patient's teeth are often found on the tip.

Causes and treatment will be determined based on the results of studies and tests performed to complement the visual examination. There are no specific laboratory tests that can confirm or refute hypertrophic enlargement of the tongue, so the doctor will resort to the following methods:

• extraoral or intraoral and jaws;
• X-ray of the respiratory system;
• assessment of swallowing function;
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland;
• CT and MRI - both in case of serious breathing or swallowing problems, and in case of suspected tumor formation;
• ECG and EchoCG, which allow differential diagnosis with heart disease in case of difficulty breathing.

Computed tomography is preferable to MRI either if the swelling occurs suddenly and requires urgent management, or if the swelling occurs in a small child (due to the need to sedate them for MRI).

Important! A biopsy can also be used for diagnosis, but it should be used only in specific situations: the puncture method will be uninformative, and a surgical biopsy is associated with the risk of bleeding from the lingual arteries.

Glossitis

The tongue may become swollen due to glossitis.

Glossitis is an infectious inflammatory disease, due to which the tongue may become noticeably swollen, and a coating of one shade or another will appear on its surface. In addition to problems with articulation and nutrition, patients often complain of itching, which is caused by its erosive lesions (which can affect the entire oral mucosa). Low-grade fever, enlarged local lymph nodes, nausea and general weakness are also likely.

If the tongue is swollen due to glossitis, the reasons always lie in the penetration of infectious agents into this organ, but the routes of invasion may vary depending on the type of disease. Most often, the disease is provoked by streptococci and staphylococci, which are activated due to poor oral hygiene, have entered the tissue due to mechanical damage, or have multiplied due to weakened immunity.

But in some cases, swelling of the tongue occurs due to microorganisms that cause diseases of the internal organs - lungs, liver, gastrointestinal tract and others. In this case, it will be necessary to first treat this disease, otherwise the elimination of swelling of the tongue will be only temporary.

The most complete classification of glossitis types today includes the following types:

• diamond-shaped;
• desquamative;
• hypertrophic;
• mycotic;
• Gunter's;
• traumatic;
• villous;
• ulcerative;
• herpetic;
• catarrhal;
• atrophic;

Treatment of glossitis involves eliminating not only the cause of inflammation, but also its consequences, which will require a thorough cleaning of the entire oral cavity, including teeth, and then resort to drug therapy. Depending on the type of disease, it will include the use of antibiotics, antiseptic solutions, anesthetics, antifungal or antibacterial agents.

Note! Rinsing with various natural decoctions and following a certain diet, the details of which will be determined by the doctor, will also be useful.

Traumatic injury

After piercing, swelling lasts for about a week.

The second most common reason for tongue swelling is mechanical damage. In everyday life, this most often occurs due to biting the tongue with teeth or hot liquid (food). Somewhat less common are cases of chemical burns, as well as enlargement and redness due to piercing.

It is possible that the injury was caused by an iatrogenic factor - the tongue was accidentally touched during any medical procedure performed in the oral cavity by a dentist or surgeon. Tracheal intubation can also cause damage, especially if it is provided to the patient as an emergency without taking all precautions.

Additional Information. In rare cases, the fact that the tongue is swollen can be caused by radiation therapy, namely the treatment of malignant tumors using one of the types of radiation exposure.

Other Possible Causes

The tongue may become swollen due to an allergic reaction.

Some people experience a swollen tongue due to an allergic reaction called angioedema. It can be triggered by various biological or chemical factors such as medications, food, insect bites, or contact with certain natural or synthetic materials. Quincke's edema is considered a health and life-threatening disease, so the patient should immediately take antihistamines and seek medical help.

An increase in the size of the tongue is often caused by hormonal disorders in the body, the most common of which are hypothyroidism and diabetes. Swelling of the tongue is also likely in patients with cancer, amyloidosis, or sarcoidosis. The tongue may also become swollen due to the following: reasons:, amoebic dysentery, pneumonia, acute rheumatism, smallpox, tuberculosis, scurvy, pellagra, uremia, acromegaly.

The growth of the tongue can be passive in nature, and be caused by the loss of teeth in the lower jaw. It develops rather slowly, and the degree of its severity depends on the length of the section of the alveolar arch that is devoid of teeth.

A swollen tongue is a very rare occurrence that requires immediate attention. After all, such processes do not manifest themselves just like that.

Possible causes of swelling

Of all the variety of diseases similar situation may cause:

• inflammatory processes;
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• infectious processes (scarlet fever);
• immediate allergic reactions;
• oral diseases;
• hormonal imbalances and general exchange substances;
• pituitary disorders;
• Down syndrome;
• a bite of an insect.

In addition to diseases, the cause can be a domestic injury in the form of a chemical or thermal burn, a bite or injury, or an unsuccessful puncture (piercing).

Poses a major health hazard cancer diseases, which may manifest as swelling. If it is not possible to identify the cause, an allergic nature is excluded, the patient should be referred for consultation and examination to an oncologist.

Symptoms accompanying tongue swelling in various diseases

Factors can be varied. Based on the medical history and a complete examination of the patient, an experienced doctor will determine the real reason and prescribe adequate treatment.

Inflammatory lesion of the tongue, which is accompanied by an increase in size and smoothing of its papillae. When this organ is damaged, the sense of taste is impaired and sensitivity to temperature is lost.

Factors provoking glossitis:

1. allergic reaction to toothpaste, medicine or food;
2. dryness of the membranes of the oral cavity;
3. infections;
4. permanent injuries from braces or broken teeth;
5. lack of B vitamins and iron in the body;
6. skin diseases;
7. smoking and alcohol;
8. taking ganglion blockers.

Glossitis can be a separate disease or a manifestation of another. Symptoms of glossitis can be varied depending on the factor that provoked it and the stage of development.

Main developments:

• itching, burning, increased sensitivity;
• swollen tongue;
• color change;
• smoothing of the papillary pattern;
• difficulty swallowing and chewing, speech impairment may occur.

It can be acute and become chronic.

Diagnosed based on examination of the oral cavity. If an underlying disease is suspected, the necessary studies are prescribed to confirm the diagnosis.

Swelling of the tongue, regardless of the cause, requires immediate help; treatment includes oral hygiene and specific therapy. The consumption of hot and cold foods, seasonings and salt should be avoided. Subject to availability bad habits exclude them to reduce trauma and irritation of the tongue.

When the causes are identified, treatment appropriate to the damaging factor should be used to reduce swelling. This may be antiviral, antibacterial or antifungal therapy.
With complete treatment, the prognosis is favorable. The process is stopped, and the tongue returns to the initial state with restoration of all functions in full.
Due to swelling, the following complications may occur: breathing, eating and speech problems.

Why if there was a burn high temperature or the tongue is swollen by a chemical. The upper layer of the epidermis is destroyed, forming open wound, if we take into account that the microbial population of the oral cavity is more dense than in other parts of the body, rapid infection begins, the body turns on defense. To enhance the fight against infection and accelerate regeneration, a rush of blood occurs into the affected organ and the tongue swells.

In case of mechanical injury (bite or puncture), manifestations are similar to burns. Help in in this case consists of treating the tongue with antiseptics and maintaining personal hygiene. Food should be gentle in terms of the temperature of the dishes consumed and the composition. Eliminate spicy and salty foods, as well as seasonings.

What to do to speed up healing. At home, you can use the wisdom of grandmothers. Rinse your tongue with decoctions of herbs that have wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties. A decoction of chamomile, eucalyptus, sage, calendula and many other plants that have the desired properties should be prepared before rinsing. Store no more than a day.

Your tongue may become swollen after piercing. Therefore, you should pay attention to the healing time after piercing. This takes about 5 days for the swelling to decrease and after 2 weeks the wound is completely healed. If suppuration occurs, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Important. Special danger have inflammatory processes in the head area, possible rapid development of brain inflammation and death.

Allergic reaction

If the tongue is swollen, the cause is often an allergic reaction. With a minor clinical picture, it is accompanied by itching, urticaria, diarrhea various types. In anaphylactic shock, shortness of breath occurs, swelling of the larynx, blue discoloration of the nasolabial triangle and fingers, and loss of consciousness. You need to act quickly, otherwise death is possible. Less severe symptoms do not indicate refusal of urgent medical care.

Hypothyroidism

When the humoral background is disturbed, in particular, the secretion of thyroid hormones decreases, a gradual increase in the organ occurs and its relief is smoothed. Self-treatment not provided. Hormonal drugs are prescribed under constant monitoring of blood parameters. Within six months the body begins to return to normal, which is reflected in the tongue, it returns to normal condition, acquiring mobility and original dimensions.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism:

• decline vital energy, the patient feels tired even after sleep;
• depression appears and increases;
• hair begins to thin;
• Women experience problems with their sexual function (menstrual irregularities).

These symptoms will prompt the doctor to make the correct diagnosis.

Acromegaly

A disease caused by a tumor localized in the pituitary gland. Selection occurs increased amount growth hormones, in adulthood this leads to an increase in the size of the nose and ears, and the tongue begins to swell. Requires serious therapy with observation narrow specialists. Difficult to treat condition.

Amyloidosis

In this type of disease, the organ is a reflection general process, all treatment is aimed at restoring and maintaining the entire body.

The reaction to an insect bite is expressed in varying degrees depending on the individual characteristics. Severe swelling or an allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis, may occur.

What to do if your tongue is swollen after an insect bite. You should apply cold to the bite site, which will reduce the absorption of the toxin into the blood and take antihistamines available in your home medicine cabinet. This should be done before emergency medical services arrive.

Stomatitis

Manifests itself in the form of a violation of integrity (small ulcers), hyperemia and slight swelling. Should be treated primary disease, and the tongue swelling will go away on its own. It can be treated with folk remedies: the use of aseptic drugs and herbs and specific gels and ointments for stomatitis.

Infectious nature

Regardless of whether the tongue is infected primarily or is just a manifestation general infection(scarlet fever) requires antibiotics. Have the greatest activity medicines, specific to the bacterium. The danger of scarlet fever lies in its similarity to a sore throat, but sudden swelling of the larynx can occur, which can cause suffocation. Medicines for local treatment The same ones that are used for sore throat are suitable.

Mononucleosis

It is accompanied by a process of swelling not only of the tongue, but also of the throat. Treatment during the process is aimed at eliminating symptoms. There is no need to guess what to do. If the reaction occurs quickly, it is most likely an allergy. You should call an ambulance without wasting time medical care and before the team arrives, monitor the patient’s condition. If possible, give the person an antihistamine and provide air access (open windows, loosen tight clothing). Panic states are not acceptable; you should reassure the victim and calm down yourself. This will reduce the symptoms of suffocation.

Self-treatment for swelling of the tongue is only permissible in the case of minor injury or allergies. In other situations, competent qualified assistance is needed. As soon as you notice an enlargement or swelling of the tongue, you should contact the clinic or hospital at your place of residence.