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A Remedy for Tongue Ulcers

Another name for a tongue ulcer is a "liar's bump." Unlike Pinocchio, we really do not grow bumps on our tongues or noses because of telling a lie. A mouth ulcer is actually a form of an apthous ulcer. Treatment for these annoying bumps can help with the pain; but they often subside on their own within a few days.

  1. Definition

    • An apthous ulcer occurs due to an injury or trauma to the tongue. They are small lesions on the surface of the tongue. Normally white in color, they can be reddish or bloody is they are severe. These lesions are harmless, although they can be extremely painful and make talking or chewing difficult.

    Symptoms

    • A burning sensation in a localized area on the tongue is a sure sign you have a tongue ulcer. You may develop a protruding bud or protuberance on the tongue two to three days before seeing the actual reddish growth. The tongue may be tender and sore, so your appetite may decrease.

    Causes

    • Accidentally biting your tongue while talking or chewing can cause a mouth ulcer. Foods including scalding hot coffee or tea or spicy foods can cause and aggravate the lesion. Smoking cigarettes or overindulging in alcoholic beverages can also cause mouth ulcers. Some people believe that foods high in acid such as tomatoes or citrus fruits cause ulcers on their tongues.

    Treatments

    • Symptoms will go away on their own in a few days, but in the meantime, treatment will ease the pain and soreness. Many doctors recommend taking B-complex vitamins to aid in the healing process. Applying glycerin directly to the tongue can also help it to heal.

      Home remedies include eating ripe papaya to help ease the pain, or applying butter directly to the lesion. Gargling with salt water aids in the healing process. Taking a tablespoon of coconut oil each day will help speed the healing.

      Over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen will help ease the pain. Hold an ice cube over the affected area on the tongue to calm down the inflammation and lessen the pain.

    Prevention

    • Avoid chomping on gum while talking or walking. Chew foods slowly for optimal digestion, and to avoid mouth sores. Allow your foods and beverages to cool slightly before eating or drinking. Avoid cigarettes altogether and do not drink too much alcohol.

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