The tongue can become sore as a result of accidentally biting it. However, a sore tongue can also be an indication of a serious medical condition. Sometimes, bacteria or viruses can infiltrate the tongue. In other cases, the cells in the tongue can grow at a rapid rate. Fortunately, the causes of a sore tongue have specific treatment options.
Glossitis
MedlinePlus says that glossitis refers to a condition in which the tongue changes color and becomes swollen. Specific glossitis symptoms include a sore tongue, a smooth appearance of the tongue due to loss of the finger-like projections called papillae and trouble swallowing, chewing or speaking. Other symptoms include a beefy red or pale tongue.
Viral or bacterial infections such as oral herpes simplex can lead to glossitis. Other causes may include a yeast infection, trauma, burns, a dry mouth and exposure to tobacco, spices or hot foods. Medical problems such as iron deficiency anemia or apthous ulcers can also lead to glossitis.
MedlinePlus says that treatment for glossitis involves reducing inflammation. Brushing the teeth two times a day, flossing and changing the diet can reduce glossitis symptoms. Taking antibiotic and antifungal medications can also be used to manage glossitis.
Oral Cancer
Oral cancer refers to a cancer that affects the mouth. MedlinePlus says that oral cancer symptoms include lesions, ulcers or lumps on the lip, tongue or mouth. These regions may be sore and they may form a deep crack within the tissue. Other oral cancer symptoms include difficulty swallowing, mouth sores, tongue problems and a strange taste in the mouth.
MedlinePlus says that tobacco and smoking causes 70 to 80 percent of oral cancers. Alcohol consumption, poor dental hygiene and the human papilloma virus can all lead to oral cancer. Treatment for oral cancer involves chemotherapy and radiation to eliminate the oral cancer cells or surgery to remove the cancerous tumor.
Lichen Planus
Lichen planus is an inflammatory skin condition that typically affects the arms or legs, according to MedlinePlus. Sometimes, this condition can also affect the genitals and mouth.
Lichen planus symptoms can include mouth sores, a sore tongue, tenderness or itching of the mouth and shiny red patches on the cheeks or tongue. Other symptoms of lichen planus include skin bumps that can appear purple, pink or red in color and hair loss. Unfortunately, the cause of lichen planus is unclear. However, it may be linked to an allergic reaction to a medication or an infection such as hepatitis C.
Treatment for lichen planus involves taking such medications as antihistamines, corticosteroids. Also, phototherapy (a type of light therapy) can also be beneficial.
