
A dense network of blood vessels present in the tongue makes it susceptible to bleeding due to various reasons. Here are some causes, symptoms and remedies for a bleeding tongue.
Tongue is one of the most frequently utilized muscles of the body. It is susceptible to various injuries, due to the presence of soft tissues and a heavy network of blood vessels. Even a slight impact to the tongue can easily damage the underlying blood vessels and cause them to rupture. This results in profuse bleeding of the tongue. Although, the cause of bleeding tongue can be as minor as accidental biting of tongue, the presence of large number of bacteria in mouth makes it an issue of concern. More often than not, it leads to infections of serious consequence, if not treated in time.
There are myriad causes for bleeding tongue such as –
Rarely, the cause of bleeding tongue can be something as serious as tongue cancer.
The most important of all symptoms is blood flow at the site of injury. Sometimes, when the impact of the injury is not enough to rupture the underlying blood vessels, it may only lead to redness of tongue. The area becomes tender to touch and is very prone to further damage while eating or talking. If the cause of bleeding tongue is tongue cancer, then you may experience a slight growth at the base of the tongue, at the back of your mouth. This growth is in the form of a white or red spot, which bleeds frequently and without any apparent reason. In addition, you may have a persistent bad breath and a bad taste in mouth.
When you accidentally bite your tongue while eating or talking, you first need to attend to the blood flow. Before touching your tongue, wash your hands with a disinfectant soap, because tongue is prone to all kinds of infection. Then press the wound with a clean gauze pad or a cloth. Tilt your head forward to avoid choking due to blood that accumulates at the back of throat. Apply a cube of ice on the tongue for some time. It will constrict the blood vessels and eventually stop the blood flow. You may also place a cold tea bag containing black or green tea. The tannins in black and green tea facilitate the coagulation of blood. You can also use some herbs for treating bleeding tongue. These herbs are as follows.
Alum root has amazing antiviral and astringent properties. It is very effective against bleeding due to tongue ulcers and skin abrasions. It is available in capsules, which can be ground to make a mouthwash.
Calendula tea has great healing properties and promotes the repair of damaged tissues. Drink calendula tea thrice a day to treat bleeding tongue.
Lemon balm is a herb which has effective antiviral properties. It is mostly used in mouthwashes for its disinfectant properties. Swish lemon balm mouthwash at least 3 to 4 times a day.
Licorice is a great remedy due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Suck a licorice candy until the symptoms of bleeding tongue disappear.
In case, the cause of bleeding tongue is cancer, you may need to undergo a surgery or chemotherapy to eradicate the malignant cells of cancer. Often, a surgery is followed by a radiation or chemotherapy session to inhibit growth of cancer cells in future. Dry, bleeding tongue due to bulimia can be treated by increasing your intake of lean protein sources and vitamins. Moreover, keep your body well hydrated by drinking 8 – 10 glasses of water a day.
Bleeding tongue can be extremely painful and difficult to treat due to continuous saliva production in the mouth. If you have severely injured your tongue, you should immediately consult a medical practitioner, who may initiate the treatment without further delay.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informative purpose only. It is, under any circumstances, not to be substituted for a medical practitioner’s advice.