Why is your tongue red swollen and sore?

Several reasons can cause a red swollen and sore tongue.

Infections: A variety of infections, including the common cold and flu, can cause the tongue to appear red, swollen, and sore. These infections are often accompanied by other symptoms, such as a fever, sore throat, and fatigue.

Allergies: Allergies, particularly food allergies, can also cause the tongue to become red, swollen, and sore. If you have an allergy to a particular food or substance, you may experience symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing in addition to tongue pain.

Trauma: Physical trauma to the tongue can also result in redness, swelling, and soreness. This can occur from an accident, such as biting the tongue, or from medical procedures, such as dental work.

Canker sores: These small ulcers can develop on the tongue or in the mouth and can cause pain, swelling and redness.

Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in certain vitamins (like iron, vitamin B9 and vitamin B12) and minerals (like zinc) can also cause the tongue to become red, swollen, and sore.

Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as scarlet fever and Kawasaki disease, can cause the tongue to appear red and swollen.

If your tongue is red, swollen, and sore and you are concerned about the cause, it is best to see a doctor for evaluation. The doctor can determine the cause of the tongue pain and recommend the appropriate treatment.