We’ve all been there. You take a big bite of piping hot pizza or sip on a too-hot cup of coffee, only to feel a searing pain in your tongue.

A burned tongue is not only uncomfortable, but it can also make it difficult to taste and enjoy the food you’re eating. If you’re someone who loves spicy or hot foods, this can be a real problem. Here are some tips on how to handle a burned tongue and get back to enjoying your favorite foods.

1. Cool It Down

The first thing you want to do when you burn your tongue is to cool it down. Drink a glass of cold water or suck on an ice cube. This will help to ease the burning sensation and soothe your tongue.

Be careful not to drink anything too cold, as this can also cause discomfort.

2. Use Milk or Yogurt

If water alone isn’t doing the trick, try drinking a glass of milk or eating some yogurt. The dairy products can help to neutralize the heat and provide a cooling sensation.

If you don’t have any milk or yogurt on hand, you can also try eating a teaspoon of honey or a spoonful of sugar.

3. Rinse Your Mouth

Rinsing your mouth with cool water can also help to alleviate the burning sensation. Swish the water around in your mouth and spit it out. Repeat this a few times to help wash away any lingering heat.

You can also try adding a pinch of salt to the water, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

4. Avoid Acidic Foods and Drinks

If your tongue is still feeling tender, it’s best to avoid acidic foods and drinks. These can irritate the already sensitive tissue in your mouth and make the burning sensation worse.

This includes things like citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar-based dressings.

5. Try a Numbing Spray or Lozenge

If you’re really struggling to cope with a burned tongue, you can try using a numbing spray or lozenge. These contain ingredients like benzocaine or lidocaine, which can help to temporarily numb the affected area.

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Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, as overuse can cause adverse side effects.

6. Give It Time

Perhaps the most important thing to remember when dealing with a burned tongue is that it will take time to heal. The best thing you can do is to be patient and ride it out.

Avoid anything that will further irritate your tongue and focus on eating soft, gentle foods that won’t aggravate the affected area.

7. Prevention is Key

While it’s impossible to avoid burns altogether, there are a few things you can do to minimize your risk. First, let your food cool down a bit before taking a bite. Second, take smaller bites and chew your food slowly.

This will help to prevent hot liquids or steam from getting trapped in your mouth. Finally, be mindful of what you eat. If you know you’re sensitive to spicy foods, it’s best to avoid them altogether.

8. When to See a Doctor

In most cases, a burned tongue will heal on its own within a few days. However, if your tongue is still painful after a week or if you notice any signs of infection, such as swelling or pus, it’s important to see a doctor.

They can prescribe medication if necessary and ensure that your tongue is healing properly.

9. Impacts on Taste

A burned tongue can also affect your sense of taste. This is because the heat can damage the taste buds on your tongue, making it difficult to discern flavors.

If you’re struggling to taste your food properly, give your tongue some time to heal before trying strong or spicy flavors again.

10. Final Thoughts

A burned tongue is a common problem that can be both uncomfortable and inconvenient. However, with a little patience and some simple remedies, you can get back to enjoying your favorite foods in no time.

Be sure to take steps to prevent burns from happening in the first place, and if you do end up with a burned tongue, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if necessary.