Have you ever taken a sip of your favorite hot beverage and immediately regretted it because you burned your tongue? If so, you’re not alone.

Burning your tongue is a common occurrence that can happen when you eat or drink something that is too hot.

Symptoms of a burned tongue

Before we discuss what to do if you burn your tongue, let’s talk about the symptoms you might experience. The most common symptoms of a burned tongue include:.

Pain or discomfort on the tongue
Swelling of the tongue
Redness or irritation on the tongue
Blisters on the tongue

If you experience any of these symptoms after burning your tongue, it’s important to take action to soothe the pain and prevent further damage.

What to do if you burn your tongue

If you burn your tongue, the first thing you should do is try to soothe the pain and prevent further damage. Here are some steps you can take:.

1. Cool your tongue

One of the most effective ways to soothe a burned tongue is to cool it down. You can do this by drinking a glass of cold water or sucking on an ice cube. You can also try eating something cold, like ice cream or a popsicle.

2. Rinse your mouth

Rinsing your mouth with cool water can also help soothe the pain and remove any residue that might be sticking to your tongue. Be gentle when rinsing to avoid aggravating the burn.

3. Apply a numbing agent

If the pain is particularly intense, you can try applying a numbing agent to your tongue. There are several over-the-counter products available for this purpose, such as Orajel or Anbesol. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure safe use.

4. Take pain relievers

If the pain is severe, you can also take pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen. These medications can help reduce inflammation and soothe the pain.

Follow the dosage instructions carefully, and be sure to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

5. Avoid hot or spicy foods

While your tongue is healing, it’s important to avoid hot or spicy foods that could further irritate the burn. Stick to soft, cool foods like yogurt or pudding until your tongue has fully healed.

When to seek medical attention

Most burns to the tongue are minor and can be treated at home. However, there are some cases when you should seek medical attention. These include:.

If the pain is severe and doesn’t improve with home treatment
If the burn is deep and affects a large portion of your tongue
If you develop a fever or other symptoms of infection
If the burn is caused by a chemical or other harsh substance

If you’re unsure whether you need medical attention, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional.

Preventing tongue burns

While tongue burns can happen to anyone, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting burned. These include:.

Always test the temperature of your food or drink before consuming
Blow on hot foods or drinks to cool them down before taking a bite or sip
Avoid eating or drinking anything too hot while distracted or on the go

By taking these steps, you can help prevent tongue burns and avoid the discomfort and pain they cause.

Conclusion

Burning your tongue is a painful, but often avoidable, experience. If you do get burned, remember to cool your tongue, rinse your mouth, and avoid hot or spicy foods while you recover.

And if the pain is severe or the burn is deep, consult a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective treatment.