- 1. Allergic reactions
- 2. Sjogren's syndrome
- 3. Vitamin and mineral deficiency
- 4. Oral candidiasis
- How the treatment is done
The swollen tongue may just be a sign that an injury has occurred, such as a cut or burn on the tongue. However, in some cases, it may mean that there is a more serious illness that is causing this symptom, such as an infection, an insufficiency of vitamins or minerals or even a problem with the immune system.
It is important to understand what may be the source of the inflammation in the tongue and to seek a stomatologist, who will indicate the most appropriate treatment for the problem.
1. Allergic reactions
The tongue may become swollen as a result of an allergic reaction to products that are used in the mouth, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, dentures or leaks.
What to do: If the person suspects that the swelling of the tongue is being caused by some product he has used in his mouth, he should suspend it immediately and consult a dentist or stomatologist, who may recommend a replacement.
2. Sjogren's syndrome
Sjögren's syndrome is a chronic autoimmune rheumatic disease, which consists of inflammation of certain glands in the body, such as the mouth and eyes, which can cause symptoms such as dry mouth and eyes, difficulty swallowing, and an increased risk of infections in in the mouth and can lead to inflammation of the tongue.
Learn how to identify Sjogren's syndrome.
What to do: generally, the treatment consists of the use of remedies such as lubricating eye drops, analgesics and anti-inflammatories, remedies that regulate immunity and the functioning of the glands. Learn more about treatment.
3. Vitamin and mineral deficiency
Very low levels of vitamin B12 or iron can cause swelling on the tongue. In addition, vitamin B12 and iron deficiency can also lead to the occurrence of other symptoms, such as tiredness, anemia, lack of energy, decreased concentration, poor appetite, frequent infections, tingling in the legs and dizziness.
What to do: Generally, the doctor recommends supplementation with vitamin B12 and iron, as well as a diet rich in these substances. Learn how to make a diet rich in iron.
4. Oral candidiasis
Oral candidiasis is characterized by a fungal infection in the mouth, with symptoms such as the accumulation of a whitish layer in the mouth, the presence of white plaques, a cotton sensation inside the mouth and pain or burning in the affected regions. This disease is more common in people with weakened or underdeveloped immune systems, such as babies and people with HIV, diabetes or infections.
What to do: Treatment usually consists of using an oral suspension of nystatin and, if necessary, the doctor may recommend oral antifungals, such as fluconazole.
In addition, there are other factors that can cause swelling on the tongue, such as cuts, burns or ulcers on the tongue, skin problems such as lichen planus and intake of irritants.
How the treatment is done
In addition to being very important to treat the problem that causes the swelling of the tongue, in some cases, it may be necessary to treat inflammation and pain with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen.
It is also important to maintain good oral hygiene, stop smoking and avoid drinking alcohol.
