A tongue biopsy involves taking a small tissue sample for microscopic examination. This procedure helps diagnose various conditions, such as infections, inflammation, or abnormal growths on the tongue.
Understanding Pain During the Biopsy
During a tongue biopsy, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area and prevent pain. While sharp pain is uncommon, some individuals may feel pressure, pulling, or a brief sharp sensation if a sensitive spot is touched or the anesthetic wears off slightly.
In some cases, if a larger tissue sample is required, general anesthesia may be used, ensuring the patient is asleep and pain-free throughout the procedure. The entire procedure typically lasts between 15 to 30 minutes.
Managing Post-Procedure Discomfort
Following a tongue biopsy, it is common to experience some discomfort, including soreness, tenderness, or a mild throbbing sensation at the biopsy site. This feeling is often compared to that of a canker sore. The typical duration of this discomfort ranges from a few days to about a week, though it can extend up to two weeks if stitches were required.
To manage post-procedure pain, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen are often effective. Applying cold compresses or allowing ice chips to melt in the mouth can help reduce swelling and discomfort, particularly within the first 24 to 48 hours after the procedure. Maintaining a soft diet is advisable to prevent irritation to the healing site, avoiding hot, spicy, acidic, or sharp foods like chips or popcorn.
Gentle oral hygiene is important. Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water (about a quarter teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water) several times a day can aid healing, but avoid vigorous rinsing to prevent dislodging blood clots. Brush teeth gently, but avoid direct brushing of the biopsy site until advised by a healthcare provider.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While some discomfort is expected after a tongue biopsy, certain signs and symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Severe or worsening pain that is not relieved by pain medication could indicate a complication. Excessive bleeding from the biopsy site that persists despite applying pressure for 10-30 minutes is another reason to contact your healthcare provider.
Signs of infection, such as fever, pus discharge, increased swelling, or redness spreading from the biopsy site, require prompt reporting. Also seek medical advice for difficulty swallowing or breathing, or numbness or tingling that persists unusually long after the local anesthetic should have worn off.