What should I do if I have a hemangioma growing under my tongue?

Nov 07, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Chao

Introduction

Hemangiomas under the tongue should be managed through observation and monitoring, local injection, laser therapy, surgical excision, or sclerotherapy. Because lesions in the sublingual area may affect eating and speech, early evaluation and treatment planning are essential. Prompt medical attention is recommended if the hemangioma grows rapidly, ulcerates with bleeding, or interferes with swallowing. For small sublingual hemangiomas without symptoms, conservative management may be considered.

Hemangiomas under the tongue should be managed through observation and monitoring, local injections, laser therapy, surgical excision, or sclerotherapy. Because lesions in this location can affect eating and speech, early evaluation and treatment planning are essential. Seek prompt medical attention if the hemangioma grows rapidly, ulcerates, bleeds, or interferes with swallowing.

1. Observation and monitoring: For small, asymptomatic sublingual hemangiomas, regular check-ups to monitor changes in size and texture are recommended, along with assessment of any impact on tongue movement. Some small hemangiomas may remain stable without progression and do not require immediate intervention, thus avoiding overtreatment.

2. Local injection: For medium-sized hemangiomas that have not invaded deeper tissues, anti-angiogenic medications can be injected directly into the lesion to disrupt abnormal blood vessels and reduce tumor volume. After injection, monitor for adverse reactions such as swelling or pain to ensure safety.

3. Laser therapy: Superficial, bright red sublingual hemangiomas can be treated using specific wavelength lasers that precisely destroy abnormal blood vessels, reduce blood supply, and promote lesion shrinkage. After treatment, maintain good oral hygiene and avoid hot or irritating foods to prevent damage to the treated area.

4. Surgical excision: Large hemangiomas that impair swallowing or frequently bleed may require complete surgical removal. During surgery, care must be taken to protect the lingual nerve and surrounding blood vessels. Postoperative wound care is crucial to prevent infection and scar adhesions.

5. Sclerotherapy: For deep, highly vascularized sublingual hemangiomas, sclerosing agents are injected to induce vessel occlusion and fibrosis, gradually reducing the size of the lesion. After treatment, monitor for local swelling that could affect breathing or eating.

In daily life, avoid consuming hard or excessively hot foods. Chew slowly and thoroughly during meals to minimize friction and irritation to the hemangioma. Maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing the mouth with warm water after eating, and regularly monitor any changes in the lesion.

View All

What should be done about a hemangioma in the subcutaneous tissue at the back of a toddler's head?

Hemangiomas on the back of the head in infants can be managed through close observation, topical medications, laser therapy, local injections, or minimally invasive interventional procedures. Due to the sensitive location, care should be taken to avoid damaging the scalp or skull, and mild, low-trauma treatments are preferred. If the hemangioma grows rapidly, ulcerates with bleeding, or compresses surrounding head tissues, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.