Seeking Advice on Tongue Issues
Greetings. I'm reaching out as I'm experiencing an issue that concerns me regarding my tongue. I am a 27-year-old male residing in the United Kingdom and identify as White British. I've noticed that my tongue tends to rest unusually high, leading to discomfort in my daily life. Additionally, I have another concern: it appears to sit lower than it should, and I can actually feel my epiglottis making contact with it. I wanted to get insights or advice from doctors or anyone knowledgeable about this matter.
Answers (1)
6/21/2025, 11:00:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing discomfort related to the position of your tongue and its interaction with your epiglottis. This is understandably concerning, and I'd like to provide some clarity and actionable steps.
Main Points:
- Discomfort related to tongue position can arise from various factors.
- Solutions often involve lifestyle changes, oral exercises, and monitoring symptoms.
Explanation: Your tongue's resting position can be influenced by habits such as tongue posture (where it naturally rests in the mouth), tension in the jaw, or even stress. An unusually high or low position causing discomfort might lead to issues like pain or changes in how you swallow. Feeling your epiglottis touching your tongue could indicate that your tongue may be resting lower than normal, which sometimes can happen if there are anatomical variations or increased tension in the muscles that control tongue movement.
Next Steps:
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Practice Tongue Posture: Aim to rest your tongue lightly against the roof of your mouth when your mouth is closed. This can relieve tension and promote comfort.
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Jaw and Tongue Relaxation Exercises: Yawn widely or gently open your mouth to help relax the muscles around your jaw and tongue. Consider tongue exercises, such as moving it side to side and in and out, to enhance mobility.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a note of when your discomfort increases. This could include activities like eating, speaking, or being in certain positions. If you notice patterns, it may indicate what to adjust.
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Hydration and Oral Care: Stay well-hydrated and maintain good oral hygiene. This can help reduce any irritation you may feel in your mouth.
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Seek Professional Support if Needed: If the discomfort continues or worsens, or if you notice other symptoms (such as changes in taste or swallowing), it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in oral health or a dentist.
These steps should help alleviate discomfort and improve your overall oral well-being. Remember to be gentle with yourself during this process and give your body time to adjust. If you have any further questions or developments, I’m here to help!
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