What Causes Swelling In The Tongue?

Posted on Wed, 28 Jun 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 28 Jun 2017 Answered on

Wed, 26 Jul 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I was eating and don't think I bit my tongue. All of a sudden felt swelling and there is a dime sized purple area (? hematoma)

Answered by Dr. Honey Arora (12 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Please upload a picture..

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
Thanks for the query..

Can you please click a picture and upload it here and explain the exact location of the swelling?
Also is it painful?
Is it on the top surface of tongue, side of tongue or under the tongue?
Is the entire tongue swollen along?
Do you have any known allergies?
Do you have any associated symptoms?
Do you have any medical problems or are you taking any medication?
Did icing reduced the swelling?

Please revert back with answers and a picture..

Regards..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Honey Arora (14 minutes later)

My phone is letting me download the picture. It isn't painful. the swelling hasn't changed since the ice was applied. it is on the lower half and top of my tongue. Not a place where I could have bit it. I was eating a greek salad and it felt like a spice was burning my tongue. I felt the swelling so went in to look at it and it is purple.

Answered by Dr. Honey Arora (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Looks like allergic reaction.

Detailed Answer:
Hi..
As per your explanation it is not appearing like injury but looks like an Allergic reaction.
So I would suggest you to take an anti allergic like Benadryl and see if it helps..
Otherwise consult an Emergency room is swelling increase..
Continue applying ice..

Hope this helps.

Regards .

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana