Tongue blisters, often caused by allergies, create a very painful and uncomfortable sensation, especially for children. It’s important to learn more about the various causes and treatments so you can get rid of them in the most efficient way. To learn more about this condition, read on!
Blisters on the Tongue?
As previously stated, tongue blisters are generally caused by allergies. Identified as a cut or swollen skin in the mouth, they can make it very hard to eat or drink. Blisters may occur almost immediately if you burn your mouth on hot food like tea or coffee.
What Causes the Blisters?
Blisters in the mouth are often the result of an injury or infection of varying severity. Some common causes are:
- Allergies and warts.
- Some medical conditions like cancer, leukoplakia and stomatitis
- Irritation, which may cause the tongue’s papillae to get larger
- Canker sores or mouth ulcers, which are usually yellow or white
- Excessive smoking
- Scalding or biting the tongue accidentally
- Oral thrush or yeast infection
Signs and Symptoms
Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms of tongue blisters:
- In rare cases, the condition may also come with an accompanying fever
- A burning or tingling sensation in the mouth.
- Red or white lesions on the tongue
- Painful sores or blisters on the cheeks or tongue
Tongue blisters are really uncomfortable, so getting rid of them immediately is the best thing to do. Not only does this reduce the pain you’re feeling, it ensures you can eat and drink your favourite things again!
Preventive Tips for Tongue Blisters
As the famous saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.” It is always better to avoid having the condition than to try to cure it. Here are some preventive measures that can be very beneficial in averting tongue blisters:
- Avoid using toothpaste that contains SLS, or sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Avoid scratching your blisters with your tongue.
- Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks.
- Stop smoking or avoid secondhand smoke.
- Maintain proper oral hygiene by flossing and brushing every day.
- Avoid chewing gum.
- Keep away from spicy foods until the blisters go away.
- Avoid eating acidic citrus fruits and vegetables.
Home Remedies or Treatments for Tongue Blisters
Here are some of the best home remedies and treatments for tongue blisters:
Sage. The calming properties of sage are beneficial in reducing inflammation and soothing pain.
Milk. Milk contains bioactive compounds, which are beneficial for oral health. Furthermore, since it has anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps get rid of blisters quickly.
Garlic and ginger. Both of these are beneficial because of their analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, since they possess antimicrobial properties, they are effective in fighting the underlying infections that cause the blisters.
Coriander. The analgesic, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of coriander help alleviate tongue blisters. It also helps relieve the pain and inflammation that accompanies them.
Basil. Basil has antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, all beneficial in treating tongue blisters.
Hydrogen peroxide. This helps treat the underlying causes of tongue blisters. It also possesses some antibacterial and disinfectant properties, which may help further.
Ice. Ice has anti-inflammatory and anesthetic properties, soothing painful tongue blisters.
Baking soda. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, together with the alkaline nature of the baking soda, help restore the pH balance in the mouth and get rid of tongue blisters.
Yoghurt. Since yogurt is a natural probiotic and has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties, it is beneficial in treating various infections – even tongue blisters.
Salt. This is one of the best treatments for tongue blisters. It reduces the inflammation and pain caused by the blisters. Moreover, since salt is antibacterial in nature, it helps fight the underlying infection which causes them.