Hey there, dear reader! Have you ever experienced the unpleasant sensation of burning your tongue while sipping on a hot cup of coffee or eating piping hot pizza? If yes, then you must know how frustrating it can be to live with a burnt tongue. The good news is that there are several simple and effective ways to heal a burnt tongue. In this article, we will be discussing these methods in detail. So, buckle up and read on!
What Causes a Burnt Tongue?
Before we dive into the methods of healing a burnt tongue, let’s first understand what causes it. A burnt tongue is caused by consuming hot food or beverages that are above the normal temperature range of 140-160°F. The heat damages the taste buds on the tongue, making it difficult to taste food properly. Additionally, it can cause blisters or soreness on the tongue.
1. Drink Cold Water
The first and most obvious remedy for a burnt tongue is to drink cold water. Sip on cold water to soothe the burnt area and reduce the pain. You can also add ice cubes to the water to make it even more refreshing.
2. Eat Cold Foods
In addition to drinking cold water, you can also eat cold foods such as ice cream, yogurt, or popsicles. These foods can help reduce the inflammation and provide relief to the burnt area. However, avoid eating spicy or acidic foods as they can cause further irritation to the burnt tongue.
3. Use Honey
Honey is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and can help reduce the inflammation caused by a burnt tongue. Apply a small amount of honey on the burnt area and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with cold water.
4. Saltwater Rinse
Saltwater rinse is a simple yet effective remedy for a burnt tongue. Mix half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for a few seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this process a few times a day to heal your burnt tongue.
5. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera gel is another natural remedy that can help soothe the burnt area and reduce inflammation. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel on the burnt area and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off with cold water.
6. Use a Tongue Scraper
Using a tongue scraper can help remove the dead skin cells on the burnt area and promote faster healing. Gently scrape the burnt area with a tongue scraper before rinsing your mouth with cold water.
7. Milk and Water Rinse
Rinsing your mouth with equal parts of milk and water can also help reduce the inflammation and provide relief to the burnt area. Mix milk and water in equal parts and swish it around your mouth for a few seconds before spitting it out.
8. Baking Soda Rinse
Mixing baking soda with warm water can also help heal a burnt tongue. Mix half a teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water and swish it around your mouth for a few seconds before spitting it out.
9. Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the burnt area can help reduce the inflammation and provide relief to the pain. Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth and place it on the burnt area for a few minutes.
10. Chewing Gum
Chewing gum can help stimulate the saliva production in your mouth and promote faster healing. However, make sure to choose sugar-free gum as sugary gum can cause further irritation to the burnt tongue.
11. Avoid Spicy Foods
As mentioned earlier, spicy foods can cause further irritation to the burnt tongue. Avoid eating spicy foods until your burnt tongue has fully healed.
12. Avoid Acidic Foods
Acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and vinegar can also cause further irritation to the burnt tongue. Avoid eating these foods until your burnt tongue has fully healed.
13. Stay Hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth hydrated and promote faster healing of the burnt tongue. Make sure to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
14. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers
If the pain from your burnt tongue is too severe to handle, you can use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. However, make sure to consult your doctor before taking any medication.
15. Avoid Smoking
Smoking can cause further irritation to the burnt tongue and delay the healing process. Avoid smoking until your burnt tongue has fully healed.
16. Be Patient
Healing a burnt tongue can take anywhere from a few days to a week or more depending on the severity of the burn. Be patient and let your body heal naturally.
17. Seek Medical Attention
If your burnt tongue is severe and causing unbearable pain or discomfort, seek medical attention immediately.
18. Practice Prevention
To prevent a burnt tongue, make sure to let your food or beverage cool down to a safe temperature before consuming it. Additionally, avoid eating or drinking too quickly as it can increase your chances of burning your tongue.
19. Be Mindful
Be mindful of what you eat or drink and how hot it is. Take small sips or bites and let it sit in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing.
20. Be Careful
Lastly, be careful when consuming hot food or beverages. Take your time and be mindful of how hot it is before consuming it.
Tips to Heal a Burnt Tongue: Conclusion
In conclusion, a burnt tongue can be a painful and uncomfortable experience. However, with these simple and effective remedies, you can heal your burnt tongue in no time. Remember to drink cold water, eat cold foods, and use natural remedies such as honey, aloe vera gel, and saltwater rinse. Additionally, avoid spicy or acidic foods, stay hydrated, and be patient. By following these tips and tricks, you can heal your burnt tongue and get back to enjoying your favorite foods and beverages.
