A swollen tongue, medically known as glossitis, occurs when the tongue becomes inflamed and enlarged. This condition can make the tongue appear smooth or glossy, differing from its usual bumpy texture. While a swollen tongue is a symptom rather than a disease itself, identifying its root cause is important for proper management. The swelling can range from mild discomfort to a potentially serious condition, making prompt evaluation beneficial.
Sudden Allergic Reactions
Acute allergic reactions can cause rapid and significant tongue swelling, often presenting as a medical emergency. This type of swelling results from the body’s immune system overreacting to a harmless substance. Common triggers include certain foods like shellfish, nuts, or berries, various medications such as antibiotics, and insect stings.
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can manifest with widespread swelling, including the tongue, lips, and face. This reaction can progress quickly to affect the throat, potentially obstructing the airway and making breathing difficult. Angioedema, a form of swelling beneath the skin, often involves the tongue. The tongue swelling can be accompanied by itching or pain.
Infections and Local Inflammation
Infections within the mouth or on the tongue itself can lead to localized inflammation and swelling. Oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by Candida albicans, can result in white patches on the tongue and an itchy, red mouth, sometimes causing swelling. Bacterial infections, such as cellulitis of the tongue, can cause a painful and swollen tongue, sometimes leading to abscess formation if left untreated. Viral infections, including oral herpes, can also contribute to tongue inflammation.
Severe canker sores, which are painful, round, and swollen lesions, can appear on the tongue and other parts of the mouth, causing localized swelling and discomfort. Complications arising from oral piercings, such as infection or irritation, can also induce swelling in the pierced area of the tongue.
Physical Injury and Chemical Irritants
Direct physical trauma to the tongue is a common cause of swelling. Accidentally biting the tongue, for instance, can lead to immediate pain and localized swelling that resolves within a few days. Burns from consuming hot food or drinks can similarly cause the tongue to swell and become painful.
Certain dental procedures may result in temporary swelling. Ill-fitting dentures can also rub against the tongue, causing irritation and inflammation. Exposure to chemical irritants found in some mouthwashes, tobacco products, or very acidic or spicy foods can irritate the tongue’s surface, leading to swelling and discomfort.
Underlying Health Conditions
A swollen tongue can also indicate a variety of underlying systemic medical conditions. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones, can lead to a generally enlarged tongue, a condition known as macroglossia. Amyloidosis, a rare disorder where abnormal proteins build up in organs and tissues, can cause the tongue to enlarge and appear rippled at its edges.
Nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamin B12 or iron, can cause the tongue to become red, smooth, and swollen. Some rare genetic disorders, like Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome, are associated with a large tongue from birth. Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, can also manifest with tongue swelling. Certain forms of angioedema, distinct from allergic reactions, can cause recurrent episodes of tongue swelling. Cancers affecting the mouth or throat may also present with tongue swelling as a symptom, often alongside other changes like sores or difficulty swallowing.