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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services now if your tongue or throat suddenly swells and you have difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, faintness, widespread hives, or trouble swallowing saliva.
If you have been prescribed an adrenaline auto-injector for severe allergy, use it as directed.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical care if swelling is increasing quickly, you cannot swallow fluids, you are drooling, or severe mouth pain occurs with fever and rapidly spreading swelling.
Arrange a prompt appointment with a dentist or healthcare professional for:
An ulcer lasting about three weeks or longer
A persistent red, white, or mixed red-and-white patch
A lump, hard area, unexplained bleeding, or increasing numbness
Ongoing difficulty chewing, speaking, or swallowing
Unexplained weight loss or a persistent lump in the neck
Repeated thrush or a sore, smooth tongue
Tongue pain or burning that is not settling
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine assessment is appropriate for a coating, mild soreness, taste change, or recurring pattern that persists but is not rapidly worsening.
A dentist is often a suitable first contact for visible tongue changes.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tongue problems. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.