Dealing with bumps on your tongue can be an uncomfortable and painful experience. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatment options available that can help you reduce the swelling and irritation so that you can get back to feeling your best. Here are twelve top remedies and treatments that are known to help treat bumps on your tongue:
Prepare a solution of one teaspoon of salt dissolved in a glass of warm water. Swish the salt water around your mouth, allowing it to touch the affected area. Spit out the water after a few minutes and repeat the process as needed. The antibacterial properties of salt can help reduce swelling and irritation.
After swishing with salt water, apply an ice pack to the affected area. The cold sensation of the ice pack will help numb the area and reduce inflammation. Leave the ice pack on the area for no more than 10 minutes and repeat as needed. Alternatively, you can place crushed ice in a plastic bag and use it as a makeshift ice pack.
Mix one part hydrogen peroxide with one part water to create a gargling solution. Gargle with the solution for about 15 seconds and then spit it out. The hydrogen peroxide can help reduce swelling and kill bacteria that may be causing the bumps.
An over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help provide relief from the pain and swelling associated with bumps on your tongue. Take the recommended dosage as directed on the package.
Choose an antibacterial mouthwash that contains antiseptic ingredients like eucalyptol, menthol, and thymol. Swish a small amount of the mouthwash around your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat the process several times a day to reduce swelling.
Avoiding crunchy and hard foods can help reduce irritation and pain in the affected area. Stick to soft foods like cooked vegetables and mashed potatoes. Warm liquids can also help to provide relief.
Certain foods and beverages can irritate your bumps. Avoid citrus, spicy foods, and alcohol as these can all further irritate the area.
If you have a known allergy, ensure that you are following your doctor's instructions for treatment. Take any recommended medications and avoid coming into contact with known allergens.
Tobacco and smoking products can irritate the sensitive area of your tongue and make the bumps worse. Avoid smoking cigarettes, cigars, or using smokeless tobacco until the bumps have healed.
Create a mouthwash solution by mixing baking soda and warm water. Swish the solution around for a few minutes and then spit it out. The baking soda can help reduce the swelling and can even help neutralize bad breath.
Vitamin C is known to be a powerful antioxidant and can help reduce irritation and swelling of bumps on your tongue. Talk to your doctor about the recommended dosage for you.
If the bumps on your tongue persist or become worse, it’s important to consult a doctor. Your doctor may perform a physical examination and could recommend additional treatments or medications to help reduce swelling and healing time.