Experiencing pain under the tongue when swallowing is a common and often unsettling symptom. This discomfort can range from a mild irritation to a more pronounced ache, making everyday actions like eating and speaking challenging. While frequently stemming from minor issues, this sensation can also indicate underlying conditions that warrant attention. This article explores various potential reasons for pain under the tongue when swallowing, providing insight into its causes and offering guidance on management and care.
Common Causes of Pain
Pain under the tongue when swallowing often arises from common, less severe issues within the oral cavity. Canker sores, also known as aphthous ulcers, are small, painful lesions that can develop under the tongue. These ulcers can be triggered by minor trauma, stress, or certain foods, causing localized tenderness when the tongue moves or during swallowing.
Minor injuries to the area, such as inadvertently biting the tongue or irritation from sharp foods, can also lead to temporary pain. The delicate tissues under the tongue are susceptible to such mechanical damage, resulting in soreness and inflammation. Additionally, general oral infections, whether viral or bacterial, can cause inflammation and discomfort in the mouth. Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can exacerbate these issues by reducing saliva production, which normally helps lubricate the mouth. A lack of adequate saliva can lead to increased friction and irritation, making swallowing painful.
Salivary Gland Issues
Specific issues affecting the salivary glands beneath the tongue can also cause pain during swallowing. The submandibular and sublingual glands produce saliva, and their dysfunction can lead to discomfort. Sialolithiasis, the formation of salivary gland stones, can obstruct the ducts that release saliva into the mouth. When these stones block saliva flow, especially during eating when saliva production increases, it can cause pain and swelling under the jaw or tongue that intensifies with swallowing.
Another related condition is sialadenitis, which involves the inflammation or infection of a salivary gland. This can occur due to bacterial or viral infections, leading to tenderness, swelling, and pain in the affected gland. The pain from sialadenitis often worsens during or after meals, as the gland attempts to produce saliva against the inflammation or blockage. These conditions are distinct from general oral infections because they specifically involve the salivary gland structures and their function.
When Professional Medical Advice is Needed
Recognizing when to seek professional medical advice for pain under the tongue is important. Persistent pain that does not improve within a few days, or pain that significantly worsens, warrants medical evaluation. Swelling under the tongue, jaw, or in the neck, especially if it interferes with breathing or speaking, signals a need for immediate attention.
Other concerning symptoms include a fever, the presence of pus, or any visible lump or sore that does not heal. If the pain is accompanied by systemic symptoms like extreme fatigue or difficulty opening the mouth, a healthcare professional should be consulted. These signs may indicate more serious underlying conditions that require prompt diagnosis and treatment.
Relief and Management at Home
For minor or temporary causes of pain under the tongue, several home management strategies can help alleviate discomfort. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water several times a day can help reduce inflammation and promote healing, as the saline solution acts as a mild antiseptic. Maintaining good oral hygiene, including gentle brushing and flossing, helps prevent infections.
Staying well-hydrated is beneficial, as it supports saliva production and keeps oral tissues moist, reducing irritation. Avoiding acidic, spicy, or very hot foods can prevent further irritation. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. For localized pain from canker sores, oral numbing gels or sprays containing benzocaine may provide temporary relief.
Medical Diagnosis and Treatment Approaches
When professional medical attention is sought for pain under the tongue, the diagnostic process typically begins with a thorough physical examination of the mouth and throat. The healthcare provider will also inquire about the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and any recent oral trauma or infections. This initial assessment helps narrow down potential causes.
Depending on the suspected cause, further diagnostic tests may be necessary. For instance, if salivary gland issues are suspected, imaging studies like X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans might be used to identify stones or assess gland inflammation. Blood tests may be performed to check for signs of infection or inflammation.
Once a diagnosis is established, treatment approaches are tailored to the specific condition. Bacterial infections, including those affecting salivary glands, are often treated with antibiotics. Salivary gland stones may require procedures to remove them. For chronic conditions like severe dry mouth, management might involve saliva substitutes or medications that stimulate saliva production.