What are the symptoms of tongue nerve damage?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Damage to the lingual nerves may lead to atrophy of the tongue, paralysis of the tongue muscles, and impaired function of the oral cavity and pharynx. Prolonged lack of nerve innervation can cause the tongue to gradually atrophy. Therefore, prompt medical attention is essential when lingual nerve damage occurs. Treatment should be conducted under medical guidance with medications that nourish the nerves and improve circulation, such as oryzanol, vitamin B12, and aspirin.
Damage to the tongue's nerves may lead to tongue atrophy, paralysis of the tongue muscles, and dysfunction of oral and pharyngeal functions.
1. Tongue Atrophy
When the nerves of the tongue are injured, prolonged lack of neural innervation may cause the tongue tissue to gradually atrophy, eventually resulting in overall shrinkage of the tongue.
2. Tongue Muscle Paralysis
Lesions in the hypoglossal nucleus beneath the tongue typically result in paralysis of the tongue muscles. In cases of unilateral paralysis, the tongue tends to deviate toward the paralyzed side when protruded. If both sides are affected, the tongue becomes immobile, leading to slurred speech.
3. Oral and Pharyngeal Dysfunction
When nerves in relevant areas are damaged, it can impair oral and pharyngeal functions, causing symptoms such as loss of taste, weakened chewing, and absence of the swallowing reflex.
Patients with nerve damage to the tongue should seek timely medical treatment. Under medical guidance, medications that nourish nerves and improve circulation—such as oryzanol, vitamin B12, and aspirin—may be used for treatment.
