Tongue biting is a common occurrence during a seizure, often leading to pain and discomfort. The tongue can sustain injuries from minor nicks to significant lacerations. While these injuries can be alarming, most heal effectively with appropriate care. This guide provides practical steps to support healing and identifies when medical attention is necessary.
Immediate Steps for Tongue Injury
After a seizure with a tongue injury, first assess and manage any bleeding or swelling. Gently clean the mouth with plain water or a mild saline rinse to clear blood or debris, which also helps to visualize the injury. If there is bleeding, apply gentle, direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth or sterile gauze for at least 10-15 minutes.
To reduce swelling and help numb the area, apply a cold compress to the outside of the mouth or suck on ice chips or a popsicle. Avoid placing ice directly on the tongue. For discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can manage pain and inflammation.
Supporting the Healing Process
Maintaining proper oral hygiene promotes healing and prevents infection. Rinse the mouth multiple times a day with a warm saltwater solution, using about one teaspoon of salt mixed into one cup of warm water. This helps to keep the wound clean and can also reduce discomfort.
Dietary adjustments benefit healing. Opt for soft, bland foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as yogurt, cottage cheese, soups, or well-cooked vegetables. Avoid acidic, spicy, or very hot foods, as these can irritate the wound and slow healing. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water supports healing and helps flush bacteria.
Beyond diet and hygiene, avoid irritants like tobacco and alcohol, as they hinder oral tissue healing. The rich blood supply to the tongue generally allows minor injuries to heal within a week. Monitoring the wound daily for signs of improvement, or any worsening, is also important.
When to Contact a Doctor
While many tongue injuries heal on their own, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical attention. Seek immediate care if bleeding from the tongue does not stop after 10-15 minutes of continuous pressure, or if it stops and then restarts. This signals a more significant injury that might require stitches.
Signs of infection warrant a medical consultation, including increased pain, swelling, redness, warmth around the wound, pus draining, or a fever. A doctor should assess the wound if it appears very deep, large, has ragged edges, or exposes underlying muscle. If there is difficulty swallowing or speaking, or if swelling impacts breathing, immediate medical attention is necessary. Any concerns about the seizure itself or other associated injuries should also prompt a medical evaluation.