You are sitting down to enjoy a delicious snack, a nice, crisp apple, or a handful of your favourite nuts. Then, suddenly, your tongue begins to itch. It’s uncomfortable, and you might even feel a little worried, thinking, “What’s happening to me?” An itchy tongue usually isn’t something serious. It could happen for many different reasons. Sometimes, it’s just your body reacting to something it doesn’t like.
You can make the itching stop on your own with some simple remedies.
Why Does Your Tongue Feel Itchy?
When your tongue feels itchy, it’s usually because something is affecting your mouth or your body. The itching could be light and go away on its own, or it could last longer, depending on what’s causing it.
1. Allergic Reactions
Your body may experience an allergic reaction to certain fruits, vegetables, or nuts. These foods have proteins that your immune system doesn’t like, and this can make your tongue itchy. Apples, melons, and kiwi are common examples.
If you have an allergy to things like shellfish, peanuts, or dairy, eating them can cause a stronger reaction, including itchiness on your tongue.
Things like pollen, dust, or pet dander can also irritate your mouth, especially if they get inside through your nose or mouth.
2. Vitamin Deficiency
Your body needs certain vitamins, like B12, iron, and folate, to keep your tongue healthy. If you are not getting enough of these vitamins, you may have irritation or even soreness in your tongue.
3. Infections
Sometimes, an overgrowth of yeast in your mouth, like a condition called oral thrush, can cause itching on your tongue along with white patches.
If you have a cold or the flu, these infections can irritate your mouth, including on your tongue.
4. Diabetes
If you have diabetes, you may experience a dry mouth or a burning sensation. This can sometimes make your tongue feel itchy or uncomfortable.
5. Irritants
Foods that are spicy or have a lot of acid (like citrus) can irritate your tongue and make it itchy. Smoking or chewing tobacco can also cause irritation and itchiness in your mouth.
Read More: Home Remedies to Get Rid of a White Tongue
Why Is My Tongue Itchy on the Sides?
If the itchiness is mostly on the sides of your tongue, it might be due to:
- Biting or Irritation: Accidentally biting your tongue or irritation from braces can make specific areas itch.
- Yeast Infection: Oral thrush often affects the sides and underside of the tongue.
- Canker Sores: These tiny, uncomfortable ulcers may appear on the sides of your tongue and cause pain or itching.
How Long Does an Itchy Tongue Last?
- Allergic Reactions: Usually improve within a few hours to a day once the allergen is avoided.
- Infections: Might take up to a week or more with proper treatment.
- Irritants: Symptoms should go away in a few hours after you stop the irritant.
- Chronic Conditions: Long-term issues like diabetes or vitamin deficiencies need ongoing care to prevent recurring symptoms.
Read More: Tongue Tie 101: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment for Infants
Symptoms
Here’s what they might mean:
- Itchy Tongue and Throat: Likely due to an allergic reaction.
- Itchy and Sore Tongue: Might point to a vitamin deficiency or infection.
- Itchy Tongue in Children: Often caused by allergies, teething, or viral infections.
- Itchy Tongue and COVID-19: Rarely, COVID-19 can cause itching or burning sensations in the mouth.
6 Home Natural Remedies for an Itchy Tongue
The good news is that most of the time, you don’t need to rush to the doctor to handle an itchy tongue. Many times, you can find relief with simple home remedies.
1. Salt Water Rinse
One quick and simple method to relieve an itchy tongue is to clean it with salt water. Just blend a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water, swish it in your mouth for about 30 seconds, and then spit it out.
Salt’s inherent antibacterial qualities can aid in reducing inflammation, eliminating bacteria, and accelerating the healing process.
2. Stay Hydrated
Sometimes, an itchy tongue can be caused by dryness. Throughout the day, drinking lots of water keeps your mouth moist, which aids in the removal of bacteria and irritants. Plus, staying hydrated helps your body function better overall, and a healthy body is less likely to experience discomfort like an itchy tongue.
3. Honey
Honey isn’t just sweet but it’s also a natural healer. You can apply a tiny bit of honey to your tongue. The soothing and anti-inflammatory properties help to speed up the healing process and lessen inflammation.
It also has antibacterial benefits, so it can fight off any unwanted bacteria that might be contributing to the itch.
4. Avoid Trigger Foods
If you think a certain food is causing your tongue to itch, the best thing to do is stop eating it for a while. Common culprits include spicy foods, citrus fruits, or nuts. After you cut out the problematic foods from your diet, monitor your symptoms to see whether they get better.
If the itching stops, you’ll know what not to do again!
5. Cold Compress
Sometimes, all it takes is a little chill to calm the itch. You can suck on an ice cube, or sip a cold drink to help numb the irritation. The cool temperature will provide instant relief by temporarily numbing the itch and reducing inflammation.
6. Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut oil pulling is an ancient remedy that can do wonders for your mouth, including soothing an itchy tongue. For ten to fifteen minutes, simply swish a tablespoon of coconut oil across your mouth. The oil combats microorganisms, lessens inflammation, and may even enhance your general oral health.
Just remember to spit it out (don’t swallow it), and rinse your mouth with water afterward to get rid of any residue.
Preventing an Itchy Tongue
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Use mouthwash, floss, and brush twice a day to maintain good oral hygiene.
- Consume a well-rounded Diet: Make sure you consume adequate amounts of iron, folate, and vitamin B12.
- Avoid Allergens: Stay away from foods or substances that trigger symptoms.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth healthy.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: Early checkups can help catch issues before they worsen.
When Should I See a Doctor?
Although the majority of itching tongue cases are benign, consult a physician if:
- The itch lasts more than a week.
- You have swelling, trouble breathing, or severe pain.
- There are white patches, sores, or discoloration.
- You feel very tired or lose weight without explanation.
Final Thoughts!
An itchy tongue isn’t usually a big deal and its best to understand the cause and take action. Simple fixes help, but consult a doctor if your symptoms persist. Your tongue is essential for speaking, eating, and enjoying life, so keep it healthy!
Contact Tongue Tie Phoenix for expert guidance. Our expert team understands your concerns regarding Tongue Tie and will provide consultation and treatment. Don’t wait to feel better, book a consultation today.
People Also Ask!
How to Cure Itchy Tongue?
To cure an itchy tongue, try home remedies like saltwater rinses, staying hydrated, honey, and avoiding trigger foods. If the itch persists, consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis.
How Long Does Itchy Tongue Last?
It typically lasts anywhere from a few minutes to many hours.If it continues for days, seek medical advice.
Why Is My Tongue Itchy and Sore?
Allergies, infections, irritants like spicy foods, or vitamin deficiencies can cause an itchy and sore tongue. If the pain doesn’t go away, see a doctor for proper treatment.