Should I Consult My Doctor About Possible Oral Allergy in the UK?
Hello, I'm wondering whether it's worth discussing a concern with my general practitioner. Recently, after receiving anesthesia at the dentist, I discovered that what I had thought was a "liquorice mouth" sensation is actually my tongue going numb. While I'm not sure if it’s specifically related to liquorice, I have observed that liquorice-flavored products trigger this reaction, along with certain fruits. I primarily consume berries and melon, but since I mix them on my plate, it raises some questions about which one could be the culprit. From my research, it appears this issue is not serious and typically doesn’t result in anaphylactic reactions. To be honest, I worry that my doctor might consider me an "attention seeker" if I bring this up, assuming I'm just overreacting. I've experienced tongue swelling intermittently in the past, although it hasn't been an issue lately. My main concern arises when my tonsils swell, which tends to be linked more to stress than to this particular reaction. I apologize if this seems like a ridiculous inquiry; I genuinely wish to avoid making a doctor's appointment unless absolutely necessary, as I suspect they may be weary of my frequent visits. 😅
Answers (1)
7/23/2025, 6:20:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's perfectly reasonable to seek clarification about your symptoms and whether they may indicate an allergy. Your experiences with a numb tongue and intermittent swelling, especially linked to specific foods, deserve attention. While it’s understandable to hesitate about discussing these concerns with your doctor, addressing them can lead to better management and peace of mind.
Explanation: What you're describing could be related to oral allergy syndrome (OAS), where certain fruits or flavorings—including liquorice—might provoke a reaction due to proteins that are similar to pollen proteins. This is usually not serious and doesn’t typically lead to anaphylactic reactions, but symptoms can be uncomfortable. Your previous experiences with tongue swelling and tonsil issues indicate that your body may be reacting in specific ways to certain triggers, and it could be beneficial to identify these.
Next Steps:
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Document Your Symptoms: Keep a simple food diary for a week. Note what you eat and any reactions that occur. Pay attention to when your tongue goes numb and if it correlates with certain foods.
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Identify Patterns: If possible, try to isolate the liquorice-flavored products and specific fruits, particularly berries and melon, to see if you can pinpoint any consistent triggers.
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Consider a Consultation: Given your concerns about your tongue and possibleswelling, it would be advisable to consult your GP. When you do, explain that you’re not seeking to be a bother but are looking for clarity on your symptoms, which can help them understand your needs better.
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Be Direct About Your Concerns: When you meet with your doctor, share your written notes on the reactions. This approach shows you’re proactive and serious about understanding your health.
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Monitor and Avoid Triggers: For now, it might help to avoid the specific foods until you have a clearer understanding of what’s happening.
Your health and comfort are important, and discussing these issues with your doctor is a responsible and proactive step. Remember, doctors appreciate informed patients who seek clarity about their health—it's part of their job to listen and help.
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