Numbness and cracking on the tongue, accompanied by a tingling pain.
Jun 06, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Tongue numbness with cracks and pain may be caused by conditions such as fissured tongue, oral ulcers, or glossitis, and treatment should be based on the specific underlying cause. If shallow cracks or grooves have been present on the tongue surface since birth, are covered by tongue coating, and cause no discomfort, no treatment is necessary. Besides these common causes, other possible reasons include psoriasis or insufficient blood supply to the brain.
In general, a numb tongue with cracks and mild pain may be caused by conditions such as fissured tongue, oral ulcers, or glossitis. Treatment should be selected based on the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Fissured Tongue
This condition usually refers to shallow cracks or grooves present on the tongue surface since birth. These are typically covered by tongue coating and do not cause discomfort, so no treatment is generally required.
2. Oral Ulcers
These are localized ulcerative lesions occurring on the oral mucosa. When present, they can stimulate nerve endings on the tongue, causing pain and numbness. They may also damage the tongue's mucosal layer, leading to the appearance of cracks. Treatment may include medications such as Guilin Watermelon Frost Capsules or Cetylpyridinium Iodide Lozenges, taken as directed by a physician.
3. Glossitis
This refers to inflammation of the mucosal layer and underlying tissues of the tongue, which may irritate or damage the nerves, resulting in numbness and cracking. Treatment may include medications such as Metronidazole and Fenbufen Capsules or Niacin Tablets, taken as prescribed by a doctor.
Besides the common causes listed above, similar symptoms may also result from psoriasis, vagoglossopharyngeal neuralgia, insufficient cerebral blood supply, or other conditions. It is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment if any discomfort occurs.
