Yes, allergies can sometimes make your tongue hurt.
While not the most common symptom, a sore or painful tongue can be a manifestation of an allergic reaction. This typically occurs as part of a milder allergic reaction, often triggered by something ingested or inhaled.
Here's a breakdown:
-
How Allergies Can Cause Tongue Pain: Allergic reactions involve the immune system overreacting to a harmless substance (allergen). This overreaction can cause inflammation, which can manifest as pain or discomfort in the tongue.
-
Common Allergens:
- Food Allergies: Certain foods (e.g., nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs) are common triggers.
- Inhalant Allergies: Pollen, dust mites, and pet dander can sometimes contribute to oral symptoms, although these are less direct.
-
Symptoms that May Accompany Tongue Pain Due to Allergies:
- Itching or tingling in the mouth
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
- Hives or rash
- Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
-
When to Seek Medical Attention: If you experience significant swelling of the tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, or any other severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.
-
Diagnosis and Treatment: If you suspect allergies are causing your tongue pain, consult with an allergist or doctor. They can perform allergy testing to identify specific triggers. Treatment may involve avoiding the allergen, taking antihistamines, or, in severe cases, using an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen).
