A frozen tongue occurs when saliva on the tongue freezes upon contact with an extremely cold surface, most commonly metal. Metal rapidly draws heat away, bonding the tongue to the surface. This is a mild form of frostbite; pulling the tongue away forcefully can cause significant injury.
Immediate First Aid Steps
The first step is to move to a warmer environment. Once in a sheltered area, gently rewarm the tongue using lukewarm water. Pouring it slowly over the stuck area helps melt the ice. The water must be lukewarm, not hot, to prevent burns.
Another effective method is breathing warm air onto the affected area. Cup your hands around your mouth and direct your breath onto the tongue to gradually raise its temperature. This thaws the frozen saliva naturally, freeing the tongue without additional trauma. For general frostbite, a warm-water bath at 98.6°F to 102.2°F (37°C to 39°C) for 15 to 30 minutes is recommended.
Maintaining hydration is beneficial during rewarming. Drinking warm, non-alcoholic beverages helps rehydrate tissues and contributes to body warmth. After the tongue is freed and sensation returns, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate discomfort.
What Not to Do
Avoid actions that can worsen a frozen tongue injury. Never rub or massage the affected area, as this can cause significant tissue damage. Do not use snow or ice for rewarming, as this will exacerbate the injury.
Using hot water or applying direct heat sources, such as heating pads, stoves, or fire, is dangerous. These can cause severe burns to the compromised tissue. If blisters form on the tongue, do not break or pop them. Blisters protect the underlying skin from infection.
Consuming alcohol or caffeine should also be avoided. Alcohol can impair circulation, which is detrimental to the healing process of cold injuries. While caffeine is not explicitly mentioned as harmful in the context of a frozen tongue, general frostbite advice suggests non-alcoholic beverages.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical attention if sensation does not quickly return after rewarming, or if there is persistent pain, numbness, or tingling. These symptoms can indicate a more severe injury. Consult a doctor if blisters form, especially if they appear large, discolored, or show signs of infection.
Signs of infection include increased pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or pus. If the tongue remains discolored (white, waxy, blue, or any unusual color) after rewarming, seek medical evaluation. These color changes can indicate deeper tissue damage. Any concerning symptoms, such as trouble speaking or swallowing, should prompt immediate medical care. Untreated cases can lead to complications like infection or permanent tissue damage.