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What Causes Numbness And Tingling In Tongue?

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Posted on Mon, 21 Apr 2014
Question: numbness, taste, tingling in my tongue and what is cause?
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (6 hours later)
Brief Answer: can be related to different causes Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic There are 2 nerves that are responsible for sensation to the tongue: (1) the front of the tongue- the lingual nerve (2)the back part of the tongue - the glossopharyngeal nerve Abnormal sensations of the tongue can occur as a result of a variety of conditions that could affect these nerves such as: (1)infection- any infection within the mouth can cause inflammation and affect nerve function (2)vitamin deficiency particularly vitamin b12 and folate (3) compression of any or both of these nerves by a mass (4)exposure to toxins (5)dental procedures or any type of trauma (6)allergic reaction with swelling (7)stroke (8)liver and kidney disease can sometimes cause abnormal sensations as well (9)neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (10)idopathic- this means that the cause is not known In some persons the abnormal sensations are temporary. If the abnormal sensations continue or worsen then you want to consider visiting your doctor for assessment. This would include a physical examination which would give an indication of the likely nerve involved. In addition blood tests to check vitamin levels and to rule out infection , liver or kidney disease may be suggested. The treatment would depend somewhat on the cause found but there are some typical medications that are used to reduce abnormal sensations such as amitriptyline, tegretol, lyrica, gabapentin and the SSRI family of medications. These medications are anti seizure medications and anti depressants mainly but in addition to those uses , there are also used for persons with nerve related pain who do not have either depression or seizures I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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What Causes Numbness And Tingling In Tongue?

Brief Answer: can be related to different causes Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic There are 2 nerves that are responsible for sensation to the tongue: (1) the front of the tongue- the lingual nerve (2)the back part of the tongue - the glossopharyngeal nerve Abnormal sensations of the tongue can occur as a result of a variety of conditions that could affect these nerves such as: (1)infection- any infection within the mouth can cause inflammation and affect nerve function (2)vitamin deficiency particularly vitamin b12 and folate (3) compression of any or both of these nerves by a mass (4)exposure to toxins (5)dental procedures or any type of trauma (6)allergic reaction with swelling (7)stroke (8)liver and kidney disease can sometimes cause abnormal sensations as well (9)neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (10)idopathic- this means that the cause is not known In some persons the abnormal sensations are temporary. If the abnormal sensations continue or worsen then you want to consider visiting your doctor for assessment. This would include a physical examination which would give an indication of the likely nerve involved. In addition blood tests to check vitamin levels and to rule out infection , liver or kidney disease may be suggested. The treatment would depend somewhat on the cause found but there are some typical medications that are used to reduce abnormal sensations such as amitriptyline, tegretol, lyrica, gabapentin and the SSRI family of medications. These medications are anti seizure medications and anti depressants mainly but in addition to those uses , there are also used for persons with nerve related pain who do not have either depression or seizures I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions