Allergic Reaction
For people with allergies, the list of possible triggers is seemingly endless. Dust, pollen, mold, pet dander, certain foods—the list goes on and on. And for many people with allergies, the symptoms are all too familiar, including itchy eyes, runny nose, sneezing, and coughing. But did you know that your tongue can also be affected by allergies? For example, an allergic reaction often causes a scalloped tongue.
The condition is commonly caused by an allergic reaction to something that has come into contact with the tongue. Allergens that trigger scalloped tongue include certain foods, such as strawberries or chocolate, toothpaste, mouthwash ingredients, fluoride, metal dental fillings, and even latex gloves. In some cases, scalloped tongue may also be caused by oral thrush or geographic tongue, a benign condition that causes raised bumps on the tongue’s surface.
If the condition persists for more than a week or begins to interfere with eating or drinking, it’s important to see a doctor or allergist for proper diagnosis and treatment. With proper care and management, people with scalloped tongues can still enjoy all their favorite foods and activities without discomfort.
