Why does my tongue feel clumsy when speaking English, and what can I do about it?
Generally, difficulty moving the tongue while speaking English may be caused by factors such as catching a chill, insufficient qi and blood, yin deficiency with excessive internal heat, spleen and stomach weakness, or short lingual frenulum. Patients can receive targeted treatment based on the specific underlying cause. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Catching a Chill
Catching a chill may lead to muscle tension in the mouth and constriction of blood vessels, potentially affecting the tongue's flexibility and coordination. When tongue muscles are tense or affected by cold temperatures, speaking may feel uncomfortable. It is recommended to keep warm and wear sufficient clothing.
2. Insufficient Qi and Blood
Deficiency in qi and blood may impair circulation throughout the body, including to the tongue. This can result in reduced tongue mobility, affecting speech articulation and clarity. Under medical guidance, patients may take herbal remedies such as Qixue Shuangbu Wan or Bazhen Granules.
3. Yin Deficiency with Excessive Internal Heat
In traditional Chinese medicine, yin deficiency with excessive internal heat refers to a condition where the body’s yin is deficient and yang is relatively excessive. This may cause symptoms such as dry mouth, sore tongue, or oral inflammation, thereby reducing comfort during speech. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as Tianwang Buxin Dan or Qiju Dihuang Wan.
4. Spleen and Stomach Weakness
In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen and stomach are responsible for digestion and nutrient absorption. If their function is weakened, it may affect oral moisture levels and tongue coordination, leading to discomfort when speaking. Under medical guidance, patients may take formulas such as Shenling Baizhu San or Xiangsha Yangwei Wan.
5. Short Lingual Frenulum
The lingual frenulum connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth. If it is too short or tight, it may restrict the tongue's range of motion, causing discomfort during speech. Patients should visit a reputable hospital for evaluation and may benefit from a surgical procedure known as a lingual frenuloplasty.
If discomfort occurs during speech, prompt medical consultation is recommended to prevent adverse effects.
