Why is my tongue tingling? Causes, symptoms and when to worry.
Ever had that weird, tingling feeling on your tongue that won’t go away? Maybe it feels like it’s buzzing, numb, or just a little off. It’s easy to brush it off as nothing, but sometimes, a tingling tongue can be a sign of something bigger—from allergies to vitamin deficiencies to nerve issues.
If your tongue has been tingling for a while, you might wonder: Is this normal? Should I be concerned? The good news is that in many cases, it’s harmless and temporary. But in some situations, it could mean your body is trying to tell you something important.
Let’s break it down.
Tongue tingling: what it means and when to see a doctor.
That odd tingling (doctors call it "paresthesia") happens when your tongue's nerves start sending unusual signals to your brain.
It can feel like:
- A pins-and-needles sensation.
- A slight numbness or burning.
- A buzzing or electric-like feeling.
Most times, it's just temporary. Maybe you ate something super spicy or had a mild allergic reaction. But when that tingling sticks around for hours or keeps coming back? That's when you might need to pay attention.
See a doctor if your tongue tingling:
- Happens suddenly and is severe.
- Spreads to your lips, face, or throat.
- Comes with difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking.
- Lasts more than a few days without a clear cause.
If any of these symptoms appear, it’s best to get checked out, just to be safe.
Common causes of a tingling tongue: from allergies to nerve issues.
So what’s causing that tingling sensation? Here are some of the most common reasons:
1. Allergic reactions
If your tongue starts tingling after eating certain foods, touching latex, or being exposed to pollen, you might be having an allergic reaction. If it gets severe (especially with breathing issues), that could be anaphylaxis, which means get help immediately.
2. Vitamin deficiencies
Not getting enough B vitamins (especially B12), iron, or folate? Your nerves notice. This happens more if you're on a restricted diet or have absorption issues.
3. Anxiety and stress
Believe it or not, anxiety can trigger strange physical symptoms, including a tingling tongue. When your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, it can cause temporary numbness or tingling sensations.
One study focused on a man who saw multiple doctors for unexplained tongue tingling before finding relief with an antidepressant.
If your tongue tingling comes with stress, panic, or low mood, managing anxiety through relaxation techniques, therapy, or medication may help.
4. Nerve damage or conditions
Issues like nerve compression, multiple sclerosis (MS), or diabetes-related nerve damage can sometimes lead to tongue tingling. If your hands and feet also tingle, it might be nerve-related.
5. Oral health issues
Burning mouth syndrome, infections, or recent dental work (like a filling or extraction) can irritate tongue nerves and cause tingling sensations.
6. Medication side effects
Certain medications, especially those for blood pressure or chemotherapy, can cause numbness or tingling in the mouth as a side effect.
7. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
When your blood sugar drops too low, tingles might appear along with dizziness and weakness. Common if you have diabetes or haven't eaten in a while.
If your tongue tingling keeps coming back or is getting worse, it’s a good idea to check in with a doctor to find out what’s going on.
Treatment and prevention: how to stop your tongue from tingling.
The best way to treat tongue tingling depends on the cause. Here’s what can help:
- For allergies. If you suspect a food allergy, avoid the trigger and take an antihistamine. If you have trouble breathing, seek emergency care immediately.
- For vitamin deficiencies. Eating more B12-rich foods (like eggs, dairy and meat) or taking supplements can help restore proper nerve function.
- For anxiety or stress. Deep breathing, meditation and hydration can help calm stress-related tingling.
- For oral issues. Good oral hygiene, staying hydrated and seeing a dentist regularly can prevent mouth infections and irritation.
- For nerve-related issues. If you have diabetes or nerve conditions, managing blood sugar and following your treatment plan can reduce symptoms.
If your tongue tingling is persistent or unexplained, a doctor can run tests to check for underlying conditions and help you find the right treatment.
The bottom line: what to do if your tongue keeps tingling.
A tingling tongue usually isn't anything to lose sleep over, but if it sticks around or comes with other symptoms, get it checked out. The sooner you know what's causing it, the sooner you'll feel better.
From allergies to nerve issues, there are many possible reasons behind that strange sensation and the sooner you identify the cause, the sooner you can get relief.
If you’re dealing with persistent tongue tingling and want answers, visit CityMD for expert care. Walk in anytime, no appointment needed.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.