Severe Tongue Ulcer
Patient Details: - Age: 35 - Gender: Male - Height: 5'10" - Weight: 150 lbs I have sought medical assistance from both urgent care and my dental provider, but they haven't been able to provide clarity on my condition. Today, I've started a regimen of steroids, yet the origin of this issue remains puzzling to me. There was no preceding injury; the sores appeared rapidly, within just six hours of my initial observation. While I can’t share a picture, the sore is essentially one extensive canker sore that occupies the underside of my tongue and is extremely sensitive to any form of irritation. This discomfort has continued for four days now. Although I do not have any known autoimmune disorders, I did experience mononucleosis during my high school years. My diet consists primarily of vegetables, supplemented with some lean proteins, and I also take a daily vitamin B complex that includes B-12. Would it be advisable for me to consult an ENT specialist next?
Answers (1)
7/8/2025, 10:31:01 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a painful and concerning tongue ulcer, and I understand how distressing that can be, especially since the cause is unclear. Given that you've recently started steroids and have seen multiple healthcare providers without a clear diagnosis, focusing on managing your symptoms and further exploring the potential causes is important.
Explanation
A severe tongue ulcer, especially one that appears suddenly and causes significant discomfort, can have various origins. It might be due to factors like:
- Aphthous Stomatitis (Canker Sores): These are common and often recur, potentially triggered by stress, dietary deficiencies, or viral infections.
- Infections: Viral infections (like herpes or other strains), fungal infections (oral thrush), or even bacterial infections can lead to sores.
- Allergic Reactions or Irritations: Certain foods, dental products, or medications might cause reactions.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Even with a balanced diet, deficiencies in certain nutrients can predispose you to mucosal issues.
Since you're already on steroids, which can help reduce inflammation, it's crucial to manage pain and keep the area clean to prevent further irritation.
Next Steps
-
Pain Management: Consider using a topical anesthetic (like oral gels containing benzocaine) to help soothe the ulcer when eating or drinking. Avoid overly spicy or acidic foods that could exacerbate pain.
-
Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene by rinsing with a mild saline solution or an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep the ulcer clean and reduce the risk of infection.
-
Dietary Adjustments: Continue with a balanced diet but consider including soft, bland foods that won't irritate the ulcer. Foods rich in vitamins C and B2 may aid in recovery.
-
Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a record of any changes, such as the size of the ulcer, pain level, and any new symptoms that appear. This can help identify triggers and assist your healthcare provider in making a diagnosis.
-
Consulting an ENT: Given the persistence and severity of your ulcer, it would be prudent to see an ENT specialist, especially since they can perform a thorough exam and might offer additional insight into underlying causes that urgent care or dental providers may not address adequately.
Please take care, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further guidance!
Related Questions
Seeking Insights on My Vision Issues and Retinal Concerns
I am a 19-year-old and have encountered a notable decline in my vision that varies throughout the day. Following a recent retinography, an anomaly was detected. Additionally, a recent ultrasound report revealed that I have bilateral posterior vitreous detachment. I’m curious whether this retinal paleness could be associated with any previous inflammation I might have encountered. Since Sunday, my vision has taken a drastic turn for the worse, prompting me to seek a second opinion. Some physicians are concerned that I might be dealing with an autoimmune condition, yet I have been unable to pursue this line of investigation due to financial constraints and the fact that my current health insurance does not cover consultations with a rheumatologist. At present, I am facing issues such as color fading, the appearance of floaters, sporadic eye discomfort, flashes of light, alterations in my visual field, and a moderate decline in the clarity of my sight. It’s worth noting that I do not suffer from severe myopia, and I haven’t had any eye injuries in the last five years or more.
Concerns Following 40mg Omeprazole Prescription: RLS, Fatigue, and Hair Thinning
Background: In April, I began treatment with 40mg Omeprazole after experiencing severe pain in my upper gastrointestinal tract, which led to a visit at urgent care. The healthcare providers prescribed me the medication and recommended a consultation with a gastroenterologist. Following that appointment, an endoscopy was performed, revealing Barrett's Esophagus alongside damage indicative of Celiac Disease. Blood tests subsequently confirmed the diagnosis of Celiac Disease. The medical team advised that due to the presence of Barrett's Esophagus, I should continue taking 40mg Omeprazole to prevent further deterioration. I have struggled with Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS) for an extended period, but I generally managed the symptoms through B complex and magnesium supplements. Additionally, I've been taking vitamin D for five years to address a prior deficiency. Over recent months, however, my RLS symptoms have worsened significantly. Previously, I experienced discomfort mainly at night while trying to sleep, and such instances were infrequent thanks to supplementation. Now, the condition has escalated to daily occurrences, even manifesting during the daytime, which is entirely new for me. Moreover, I have recently observed significant hair thinning. At 39 years old, I recognize that some hair loss is normal; however, in the last two months, I've begun to see my scalp more prominently through my hair, and this thinning seems to be accelerating. Additionally, my energy levels have plummeted beyond what RLS contributes to my disrupted sleep patterns. There are times when I feel an overwhelming urge to nap during the day, which is quite unusual for me. I attempted to schedule another appointment with my gastroenterologist regarding these concerns, but they have requested a two-month wait, which adds to my stress and sleep disturbances. This is compounded by the anxiety that has arisen from my Celiac Disease diagnosis and the impact it has on my family. I seek to understand what might be occurring with my health. Should I advocate for an earlier appointment, or should I consider this not overly concerning? Additionally, I've done some research on Barrett's Esophagus but still find myself confused about the condition. Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Big Toe Infection Issues
For the past few weeks, I've been struggling with an infection affecting my toe. Initially, I was prescribed an oral antibiotic for ten days, which seemed to improve the situation temporarily. However, the symptoms have unfortunately returned to their original state after I finished the medication. The area surrounding my big toe is sensitive to the touch, and I’ve noticed discharge that appears to be a mix of blood and pus coming from the cuticle. While I can still move my toe, it does cause some discomfort. I'm seeking guidance on how to proceed from here. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Concerns About My 14-Year-Old Sister's Health
My younger sister, a 14-year-old girl who weighs 82 pounds and stands 4 feet 8 inches tall, has a medical condition called Arthrogryposis. She experienced distressing symptoms recently, spending time in the emergency department on July 2nd and again today. Despite her visits, the medical staff assured us that she was stable, indicating her lab results were within a normal range, and they attributed her issues to dehydration. However, given that she consistently consumes plenty of water, I am beginning to question whether dehydration could truly be the root of her complications. Today, we noted her heart rate was elevated at 130 bpm. Since the beginning of July, she has been suffering from persistent nausea, episodes of vomiting blood, stomach discomfort, intense dizziness, and significant weakness. We do have an upcoming appointment with her primary care physician in August, which was the earliest slot we could secure, but I can’t shake the feeling that there may be something more serious at play. During a visit to urgent care today, the physician recommended that she undergo an EKG, yet the doctor in the emergency department disagreed. I find myself feeling confused and quite anxious about the situation.
Experiencing Nerve Damage and Autism: Is Numbing Cream Safe for Anal Use?
I am a 23-year-old assigned male at birth, weighing 87 kg and standing 188 cm tall. My current medication regimen includes gabapentin, estradiol, dutasteride, progesterone, and spironolactone. Living with autism and sustaining spinal cord injuries from childhood trauma has led to diagnoses of hyperesthesia, hyperalgesia, and allodynia. These conditions greatly amplify discomfort, causing numerous sensations in my daily life to be painful unnecessarily, including anal intercourse. I previously tried a numbing cream, which greatly enhanced my experiences, despite my lack of thorough research at the time. However, I've recently come across numerous warnings online advising against the use of numbing agents due to their potential to obscure real pain signals that may indicate tears or injuries. I strive to prioritize safety, yet self-examination for internal issues isn't feasible for me. While I desire to enjoy myself, I also want to avoid harm. The medical professionals I consult are largely homophobic, often dismissing my needs and suggesting I abstain from anal sex altogether, labeling it as "unnatural." I find it frustrating that external factors, particularly those beyond my control, impede my ability to enjoy life. I would greatly appreciate any insights or recommendations you might have regarding safe practices or alternatives that could assist me in this matter!