Burning the tongue on hot food or drink can be painful and uncomfortable, and may result in a tingling sensation as the burn heals.
A person can lesson the discomfort by rinsing their mouth with cool water immediately after burning the tongue. Taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, can also help if the tongue is very painful or swollen.
Stroke or TIA
Nurse assessing senior woman’s throat and swallowing after stroke affected tongue dental equipment.
A stroke may cause numbness or tingling on one side of the face, including the tongue.
Stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is cut off, resulting in damage to cells that can affect muscle function and memory.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) happens when blood flow to the brain stops briefly. It can be a warning sign that a stroke could happen in future.
Sudden numbness or weakness in the face or body is a symptom of stroke, particularly if it affects only one side of the body. If the tongue tingles or feels numb and there are other signs of stroke present, it could be a serious warning dental lab equipment.
Being aware of the symptoms of stroke and getting emergency medical treatment quickly is crucial. The easy way to remember the signs of stroke is with FAST:
Face — one side of the face droops
Arms — weakness in one arm
Speech — which may be slurred
Time is critical — call 911 if someone has these symptoms
Multiple sclerosis
Nerves that are inflamed or stop working properly is a common symptom of multiple sclerosis (MS). This can result in irritation, pain, or a burning, tingling sensation known as neurogenic pain.
Anemia
A sore, red tongue can be a symptom of anemia caused by a vitamin B12 deficiency portable dental unit. Other symptoms include fatigue, pale skin, feeling faint, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
Anemia is a condition affecting red blood cells in the body, causing extreme tiredness and low energy levels.
It should be diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible to prevent long-term problems.
Migraine
Some people who suffer from migraines may experience visual or sensory symptoms, such as seeing flashes of light before or during a migraine. This is called a migraine with aura.
These types of migraines can also cause a numb or tingling feeling in the tongue, face, or body.
Hypoglycemia
One symptom of low blood sugar or hypoglycemia is a sudden numb or tingling feeling in the tongue or lips.
People with diabetes are particularly at risk, so should check their blood glucose levels and seek immediate treatment if they experience this sudden tingling.
When to see a doctor
Tingling in the tongue usually goes away within days or weeks, particularly if it has been caused by an injury, such as a burn.
A person should seek medical advice if the feeling lasts for a long time, extends to the lips and jaw, or if there is no clear reason for a loss of sensation.
If someone has a tingling tongue and other signs of the conditions listed above, a persistent allergic reaction, or symptoms related to a dental procedure that last longer than 6 months, they should seek advice from their doctor or get urgent medical attention if needed.
Takeaway
The most common causes of a tingling tongue can usually be pinpointed to a specific experience, such as a dental procedure, allergic reaction, or burn.
If none of these apply, a person should consider other symptoms that could indicate an underlying condition.
People should know the warning signs for a stroke, particularly if they or their loved ones have an increased stroke risk.