Pain in the Floor of the Mouth: Causes and Concerns

Pain in the floor of the mouth?

Whenever food moves past the left side of the oral floor or the tongue towards the left, there is pain, and upon looking in the mirror, it is observed that there are more red elongated lesions on the left side compared to the right.
Could this be due to excessive heat in the body, or is it a precursor to oral cancer? Thank you!

A-Yun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if you continue to feel unwell, it is recommended to visit an otolaryngology clinic for examination.
Wishing you peace and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2019/04/29

More Info

Understanding pain in the floor of the mouth, especially when accompanied by visible changes such as a red elongated protrusion, can be concerning. The symptoms you describe could be attributed to several potential causes, ranging from benign conditions to more serious concerns.
Firstly, the presence of a red elongated protrusion on the left side of the floor of your mouth could indicate a few common conditions. One possibility is a mucosal lesion, such as a fibroma or a mucocele, which is a benign cyst that can form when a salivary gland duct is blocked. These lesions can be painful, especially when irritated by food or movement of the tongue. Another possibility is an inflammatory condition, such as stomatitis or glossitis, which can occur due to various factors including nutritional deficiencies (like vitamin B12 or folate), irritants (such as tobacco or alcohol), or infections (viral, bacterial, or fungal).

The term "fire" or "heat" in traditional Chinese medicine often refers to inflammation or irritation, which could be a way to describe the discomfort you are experiencing. However, it is essential to differentiate between traditional interpretations and medical diagnoses.
On the other hand, while the symptoms you describe are not typical for oral cancer, it is crucial to consider this possibility, especially if the lesion persists for more than two weeks, changes in appearance, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or persistent pain. Oral cancer can present as a sore that does not heal, a lump, or a change in the texture of the oral mucosa.

Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek a thorough evaluation from a healthcare professional, preferably an oral surgeon or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can perform a clinical examination and may recommend further diagnostic tests, such as imaging or a biopsy, to determine the nature of the lesion and the cause of your pain.

In the meantime, consider the following self-care measures to alleviate discomfort:
1. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or abrasive foods that may exacerbate the pain.

2. Maintain Oral Hygiene: Regular brushing and rinsing with a mild saltwater solution can help keep the area clean and reduce inflammation.

3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help maintain moisture in the mouth and may soothe irritation.

4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may help manage discomfort temporarily.

In conclusion, while the symptoms you are experiencing could be due to a variety of causes, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, especially if there is any concern regarding more serious conditions.

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