Swollen Taste Buds: 8 Obvious Causes Of Your Discomfort

Most people will experience an episode of swollen taste buds at some point in their lives. It does not usually imply a serious health condition, but it can cause an unpleasant sensation when eating food. In this article, we will inform you about swollen taste buds, their most frequent causes, symptoms, and recommended treatment.

What are Taste Buds?

The tongue is the organ in charge of the sense of taste, and it is covered with small structures called taste buds. These tiny sensory organs can take various shapes and are responsible for perceiving the different flavors: sweet, salty, bitter, and sour.

What are the Symptoms of Swollen Taste Buds?

This condition, also known as tongue papillitis, can occur in a small area of the tongue or in a generalized way. Typically, the duration of symptoms varies from a few hours to 2 weeks.

When taste buds become inflamed they can cause:

• Pain and tenderness, especially when eating hot food

• Increased size of the lingual papillae

• Changes in the sense of taste

• Burning sensation

What do Inflamed Taste Buds Look Like?

When the taste buds become inflamed, you will see:

• An increase in size

• A reddish, yellowish, or whitish appearance (although not always)

Why are Taste Buds Inflamed?

Inflammation of the taste buds can have multiple causes. The most frequent are:

1. Gastroesophageal reflux

When stomach acid reaches the mouth as a result of reflux, it can irritate the tongue papillae.

2. Allergies

Some people tend to be more sensitive to certain substances than others. The papillae can become inflamed after coming into contact with irritating foods or chemicals.

3. Viral or bacterial infections

Infections with certain microorganisms can cause tongue problems. When tongue inflammation is caused by a microorganism, it is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever and discomfort.

4. Very hot food or drinks

These can burn the papillae, causing them to swell.

5. Smoke

Chemical substances such as tobacco added to an increase in the temperature of the mouth can cause papillitis.

6. Nutritional deficiencies

When you don’t consume enough vitamins and minerals like iron, your tongue may swell.

7. Prostheses or restorations in poor condition

If these come into contact with the tongue, they can hurt the papillae and generate an increase in size, pain, and redness in the affected area.

8. Very acidic or spicy foods

Extreme flavors when consumed in excess can injure the taste buds and cause discomfort; it generally does not last more than a few hours.

What is Transient Papillitis of the Tongue?

When the inflammation of the tongue papillae lasts a few days (maximum one week) it is called transient papillitis of the tongue. Generally, it is caused by bites, burns, contact with irritating substances, or the consumption of certain foods.

Can Inflammation of the Tongue Papillae Imply a Serious Health Problem?

Although it is not a frequent reason for inflammation in the tongue papillae, it is important to mention that a tongue inflammation that does not heal can be one of the first signs of oral cancer. The risk of suffering from this condition increases in men over 50 years of age, with tobacco use being an additional predisposing factor.

How to Relieve Inflamed Taste Buds?

Here are 9 tips to ease the discomfort caused by swollen taste buds:

1. Rinse with warm water and salt 3 times a day.

2. Place ice on the tongue before eating since the cold has anesthetic properties.

3. See your doctor to manage acid reflux.

4. Avoid foods that are too sweet, sour, or hot.

5. Practice good oral hygiene habits, brushing your teeth after each meal.

6. Do not use mouthwashes with alcohol, as they can further irritate the tongue.

7. Apply over-the-counter topical anesthetics to decrease discomfort. This should be avoided in children since they can be toxic in young patients.

8. Make rinses with calendula infusions to reduce inflammation.

9. Limit consumption of cigarettes and vapers.

Medical Treatments  

There are a few cases of inflammation of the tongue papillae that require medication. Symptoms usually resolve after a few days, but if treatment is required, it will depend upon the cause of the inflammation. If papillitis is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, a health professional may prescribe medication or a particular mouthwash to treat it.

When to See a Doctor?

Normally, the inflammation of the taste buds subsides without the need for treatment. However, it is advisable to seek medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Inflammation of the tongue papillae that does not resolve after one week

• Fever

• Swelling of the lymph nodes

• Recurrent inflammation (when the swelling of the papillae comes and goes)

• Localized or multiple growths of the tongue

• Changes in the taste of food

• Large lesions that are not painful

Conclusion

Tongue papillitis is a condition that can affect everyone at any time. It is advisable to identify the foods and substances that trigger this inflammation and avoid their consumption to maintain a healthy tongue. It is pertinent to note that when the inflammation of the taste buds occurs, accompanied by the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek medical attention.