Pregnancy is a time in a women’s life when her body goes through many changes. Some changes can be positive and some may be negative. Pregnancy is not always a period for glowing skin there are also many unusual symptoms during this time. Some changes can be challenging like sore tongue. But however, there are not very serious nor is anything wrong going with the mother or the baby.
What is tongue sore?
A tongue sore is an open skin infection on the tongue. This condition is explained by occurrence of tiny red or white bumps on the surface of the tongue, these bumps can also change its size and can be present anywhere on the tongue or under the tongue.
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Sore Tongue During Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms and Remedies
What causes tongue sores?
lowered strength of the immune system and hormonal imbalances can lead to tongue sores. Most women with tongue sores don’t really feel any discomfort but some may develop sensitivity towards hot, spicy food, any acidic food or even to toothpaste. It is important to understand the cause of tongue sores so that you can prevent an outbreak. The common causes of tongue sores during pregnancy are
Stress
It is a key reason for tongue sores during pregnancy. It is best to avoid any kind of stress to manage tongue sores.
Sleep deprivation
Sleep deprivation can cause hormonal imbalances which can lead to side effects such as tongue sores.
Vitamin and iron deficiency
Vitamin b12 and iron can cause mouth related problems and sores on the tongue.
Hormonal imbalance
A sudden change in hormones can cause alterations in the chemical composition of the blood leading to problems like tongue sores.
Imbalanced diet
An imbalanced diet can also be a reason.
Weak immune system
It can be a leading reason to sores on tongue.
Read More: 11 Home Remedies for a Sore Throat During Pregnancy
Symptoms of sore tongue:
The first sign of tongue sores is the formations and appearance of white or red bumps on the tongue. These bumps usually resemble blisters and may differ in size.
Bad breath
Changes in estrogen and progesterone hormone level during pregnancy will increase plaque formation in teeth. The plaque has bacteria. Plaque causes bacteria buildup inside which can be a cause of tongue sore and also bad odor.
Sensitivity
You might feel sensitivity towards hot and spicy food. You will feel burning sensation while eating or drinking foods or liquids which have high acidic content, avoid eating food that irritate your tongue.
White irritated patches on the tongue
You will notice white or red tiny patches on the surface of the tongue these patches can often be painful; this is the prime symptom of tongue sores. You can be quite sure about tongue sore when you see these creamy white lesions on the surface of the tongue and sometimes on inner cheeks or the other areas of mouth. You may also notice slight change in the color of your tongue. This might also cause partial loss of taste.
Fever
You might get rise in your body temperature. This is because you body is fighting back to the bacteria causing the problem or the viral infection.
Read More: 7 Reasons why you Might have a Dry Mouth During Pregnancy
How to get rid of sore tongue?
There are different ways to treat tongue sores during pregnancy. They can be treated both by natural methods and through medications. If you are following any medications then consult your doctor first about the types and the dosage of medicines. Using ointment is also an option but try avoiding those which contains steroids since that may impact the pregnancy. There are also some natural ways to treat tongue sores which includes
Honey
Honey has curative properties that help cure inflammation and pain caused by tongue sores. Apply honey on the affected area 2 to 3 times a day. You can also add one tablespoon of honey with half teaspoon of turmeric and apply on the affected part for a few minutes. This can be repeated 2 to 4 times a day.
Lemon balm and glycerin
Extract of lemon balm mixed with olive oil helps in healing the pain or discomfort aroused due to tongue soreness. This extract should be applied on the affected area at least 2 to 4 times a day. Applying glycerin on the sore area of the tongue in the night also helps heal in a week’s time.
Aloe Vera gel
Aloe Vera has healing effects that can alleviate a sore tongue. It plays a major role in relieving pain and inflammation due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Many pregnant women have been successful in healing sore tongue with this natural remedy. Rinsing the mouth with aloevera everyday reduces inflammation.
Gargle with salt water
Gargle with lukewarm salty water to help clear any germs around the sore. Salt has natural antiseptic properties that helps reduce inflammation and pain. One teaspoon of salt in a glass of lukewarm water stir well and gargled 3 to 4 times a day, helps heal the sore faster.
Baking Soda
Baking soda has anti-inflammatory effects that help relieve inflammation and pain. A half teaspoon of baking soda mixed with water can make be applied on the sore for just a minute and then rinse off with warm water.
Some more tips
- Avoiding foods that irritate your mouth, including citrus fruits, acidic vegetables, and spicy foods
- Avoiding irritation from gum chewing
- Brushing with a soft-bristled brush after meals and flossing daily, which will keep your mouth free of foods that might trigger a sore.
Read More: Cause and Treatment of Canker Sores in Children
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