Instant Remedies: How to Heal a Tongue Burn Fast

Tongue burns are very common and can happen to anyone, mostly causing discomfort and inconvenience. Whether it’s sipping a steaming cup of tea or impatiently taking a bite of hot pizza, a burnt tongue can quickly put a damper on your day.

However, the good news is that there are instant remedies and steps you can take to heal a burnt tongue quickly and get back to enjoying your favorite foods without pain. 

In this blog by Manhattan Medical Arts, we will explore what a tongue burn is, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, how to heal and prevent them. If you find yourself dealing with a tongue burn, these tips will help you recover quickly.

What is a Tongue Burn?

A tongue burn, also known as a thermal burn, occurs when the delicate tissues of your tongue are exposed to excessive heat. This can happen due to consuming hot liquids, foods, or even accidentally biting your tongue while it’s sensitive. These burns can range from mild discomfort to more severe pain, depending on the degree of the burn.

What Causes Tongue Burns?

Tongue burns are primarily caused by the consumption of hot foods and beverages. The high temperature of these substances can damage the sensitive cells that line your tongue. Steam, hot beverages like coffee and tea, and foods like soups and melted cheese are common culprits. Additionally, coming into contact with hot cooking utensils or surfaces can also lead to a burnt tongue.

Symptoms of a Burnt Tongue

Identifying a burnt tongue is relatively straightforward, as the symptoms are usually immediate and noticeable.

Some of the most common signs of a tongue burn include:

• Pain and Discomfort:
  The affected area of the burned tongue may be painful, making it uncomfortable to eat, drink, or speak.
• Redness and Swelling:
  The burned area may appear red and slightly swollen.
• Altered Taste:
  You might experience a temporary alteration in your sense of taste due to the burn affecting taste buds.
• Formation of Blisters:
  In more severe cases, blisters might develop on the burnt area.

How to Heal a Tongue Burn Fast?

When you’ve accidentally burnt your tongue, you’ll want relief as quickly as possible. 

Listed below are a handful of effective and instant remedies to promote burnt tongue healing:

• Rinse with Cold Water:
  Gently swish cold water in your mouth to help cool down the burn and reduce pain.
• Ice Chips or Cold Compress:
  Suck on ice chips or apply a cold compress to the affected area for short intervals to alleviate discomfort.
• Honey or Aloe Vera Gel:
  Apply a small amount of honey or aloe vera gel to the burnt area; both have soothing properties that can aid healing.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers:
  Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Avoid Irritants:
  Steer clear of spicy or acidic foods that could aggravate the burn.

How to Prevent a Tongue Burn?

Prevention is key when it comes to dealing with a burned tongue – Here’s how you can reduce the risk of burning your tongue to avoid being distressed and in pain:

• Wait for the Food to Cool:
  Allow hot foods and beverages to cool slightly before consuming them.
• Blow on Hot Foods:
  Gently blow on your food or drink to cool it down.
• Test Before Biting:
  Test the temperature of your food or drink with a small touch before taking a bite or sip.
• Use Utensils:
  Use utensils like spoons or forks to handle hot foods instead of biting directly.
• Be Cautious with Microwaves:
  Be mindful when microwaving, as uneven heating can lead to hot spots.

Conclusion

While having a burned tongue feels immensely painful, and is clearly an inconvenient experience – knowing how to treat them promptly can make a significant difference in your comfort and recovery. By following these instant remedies and preventive measures, you can speed up the healing process and minimize the impact of a burnt tongue on your daily life.

If you ever face a severe burn, or if your symptoms persist, it’s advisable to seek professional medical attention. At Manhattan Medical Arts, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive care and guidance for various medical concerns, including tongue burns. Contact our experienced physicians today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you in maintaining your oral health and overall well-being.

Disclaimer
This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.