Experiencing discomfort under the tongue can be a perplexing sensation. This small area houses various delicate structures that can lead to pain when irritated or affected by certain conditions. Understanding the potential reasons behind this discomfort can help alleviate concern. This article explores factors that might contribute to pain under the tongue, from common irritations to specific medical considerations.
Structures Beneath the Tongue
The region beneath the tongue, known as the floor of the mouth, contains several important anatomical components. Prominently visible are the sublingual veins, which often appear as blue or purplish lines. These veins are a normal part of the circulatory system in this highly vascular area.
Adjacent to these veins are the major salivary glands, specifically the sublingual and submandibular glands. The sublingual glands are located directly under the tongue, while the submandibular glands are situated beneath the jaw. Their ducts open into the floor of the mouth near the base of the tongue. These glands produce saliva, which plays a significant role in oral health, digestion, and speech.
Beyond the veins and salivary glands, the floor of the mouth also consists of connective tissues and muscles. These tissues support the tongue’s movement and provide structural integrity. Any irritation or condition affecting these structures can manifest as pain or discomfort, making the area sensitive to touch or movement.
Everyday Reasons for Pain
Pain under the tongue often stems from common, non-serious causes that can resolve on their own. Accidental trauma is a frequent culprit, such as biting the tongue while eating or speaking, or injuries from sharp foods. Burns from consuming hot beverages or food can also damage delicate tissues, leading to pain. Dental appliances, like ill-fitting braces or dentures, may rub against the area and cause irritation.
Oral ulcers, commonly known as canker sores or aphthous ulcers, are another widespread cause of discomfort. These small, round lesions can appear under the tongue, typically with a whitish or yellowish center and a red border, making eating and talking painful. Dehydration or dry mouth, medically termed xerostomia, can also lead to irritation and soreness. A lack of saliva reduces the mouth’s natural protective moisture, which can make the tongue feel rough and contribute to mouth sores.
Irritation can also arise from exposure to certain foods or substances. Spicy, acidic, or very hot foods may trigger a burning sensation or soreness under the tongue. Some oral hygiene products, particularly those containing sodium lauryl sulfate, have also been linked to irritation and canker sore development. Minor infections, whether viral or bacterial, can cause localized inflammation and pain in the area.
Specific Medical Conditions
Several specific medical conditions can cause pain under the tongue. Sublingual varicosities, also known as “caviar tongue,” are enlarged and often dark, purplish veins visible beneath the tongue. While these are generally benign and asymptomatic, they can become irritated or painful if injured, such as from accidental biting or trauma from hard foods. This condition is more common with aging, due to natural changes in connective tissue and vein walls.
Salivary gland stones, or sialolithiasis, are mineral deposits that can form in the salivary glands or their ducts, particularly the submandibular glands, which drain under the tongue. These stones can block saliva flow, leading to pain and swelling in the affected gland. Pain often worsens during meals when saliva production increases. A complete blockage can cause intense pain lasting one to two hours.
Sialadenitis is an inflammation or infection of the salivary glands. This can involve the sublingual or submandibular glands, causing pain, tenderness, and swelling under the tongue, sometimes accompanied by fever. Bacterial infections are a common cause, especially if salivary flow is reduced due to dehydration or a blocked duct. Oral thrush, a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, can also lead to discomfort, appearing as creamy white patches inside the mouth, including under the tongue.
When Professional Help is Needed
While many instances of pain under the tongue resolve without medical intervention, certain signs indicate the need for professional evaluation. Persistent pain that does not improve within a few days warrants a visit to a dentist or doctor. This is important if the pain is severe or interferes with daily activities like eating or speaking.
Significant or increasing swelling in the area should prompt medical attention. Swelling accompanied by difficulty swallowing or breathing represents a more urgent situation, as it could indicate a serious underlying issue. The presence of fever or chills alongside the pain suggests an infection that may require antibiotics or other medical treatment.
Any visible lumps, unusual growths, or changes in the tissue’s appearance under the tongue should be examined by a healthcare professional. Unexplained bleeding from the area also necessitates prompt medical evaluation. These symptoms can sometimes point to more serious conditions that require timely diagnosis and management.
Managing Discomfort at Home
For minor discomfort under the tongue, several home care strategies can help alleviate symptoms. Maintaining good oral hygiene is fundamental; gentle brushing and regular rinsing can help prevent infection and promote healing. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush is advisable to avoid further irritation.
Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water helps maintain saliva production, which is crucial for oral comfort and health. Dietary adjustments can also be beneficial, such as avoiding irritating foods like those that are spicy, acidic, or very hot, as well as crunchy items with sharp edges. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, and topical numbing gels may provide temporary relief.
Rinsing the mouth with warm saltwater is a widely recommended soothing remedy. This can reduce inflammation, cleanse the area, and help promote healing. Typically, a half teaspoon to one teaspoon of salt mixed in a cup of warm water can be swished for 15-30 seconds multiple times a day.