What causes pain at the base of the tongue?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, pain at the base of the tongue may be caused by dry mouth, poor dietary habits, oral ulcers, tonsillitis, glossopharyngeal neuralgia, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specifically: when saliva secretion in the mouth decreases, the surface of the tongue lacks lubrication, making it prone to pain at the base of the tongue.
Tongue root pain is generally caused by factors such as dry mouth, poor dietary habits, oral ulcers, tonsillitis, or glossopharyngeal neuralgia. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Dry Mouth
When saliva secretion decreases, the tongue surface lacks lubrication, which may easily lead to pain at the base of the tongue. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining adequate fluid intake can help alleviate dryness in the mouth.
2. Poor Dietary Habits
Consuming excessively hot, hard, or spicy foods may irritate or damage the tongue's mucous membrane, causing pain at the tongue root. Avoid strongly irritating foods and consume fresh fruits and vegetables in moderation.
3. Oral Ulcers
Oral ulcers are superficial sores that develop on the oral mucosa. When ulcers occur inside the mouth—especially at the base of the tongue—they can cause pain, often accompanied by redness, swelling around the ulcer, and increased discomfort. It is recommended to follow a doctor’s advice and use medications such as cydiodine buccal tablets, vitamin C tablets, or compound vitamin B tablets for treatment.
4. Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is an inflammatory condition caused by pathogenic microorganisms. The inflammation may spread to the base of the tongue, resulting in pain, usually accompanied by symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Under medical supervision, medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefadroxil capsules, or compound licorice tablets may be used for treatment.
5. Glossopharyngeal Neuralgia
Glossopharyngeal neuralgia typically occurs when the glossopharyngeal nerve is irritated or compressed. This causes nerve endings within its distribution area to transmit pain signals, potentially leading to the symptoms described. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as carbamazepine tablets, phenytoin sodium tablets, or oxcarbazepine tablets.
In daily life, in addition to balancing work and rest, it is important to maintain regular physical exercise to promote blood circulation, accelerate metabolism, and enhance immunity.
