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Warning-sign checks

Sore or white tongue: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services if the tongue, lips, mouth, or throat suddenly swell, especially if breathing is difficult.

    Difficulty swallowing saliva, drooling, faintness, or widespread hives can also indicate a severe allergic reaction.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek same-day medical care if:

    • Swelling is increasing quickly
    • Pain makes it difficult to drink or keep fluids down
    • Tongue changes occur with fever or marked facial or neck swelling
    • You are severely unwell or becoming dehydrated
    • You have a weakened immune system and develop new mouth pain or patches
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine dental or medical appointment if soreness, an ulcer, or a white patch lasts longer than two weeks.

    Also book an appointment for a patch that cannot be wiped away, repeated episodes, unexplained bleeding, a lump, or ongoing trouble swallowing.

    These symptoms do not necessarily mean something serious.

    An examination is important because persistent tongue changes can have several causes that need different treatments.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Sore or white tongue. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.