Burned Tongue from Hot Soup: Should You Get an Endoscopy?

Accidentally burned while drinking soup?

Hello, Deputy Director.
I have been eating very quickly due to work commitments, and I have burned my tongue while eating over the past few days.
For the last two to three days, I have been experiencing some stomach pain, though it's not severe—just occasional discomfort.
I also feel occasional pain in my esophagus.
After three days, the pain has lessened.
Do I need to undergo an endoscopy? Thank you for your response.

Yang, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/18

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Start with medication; if symptoms persist, an endoscopy can be performed.

Reply Date: 2023/09/18

More Info

Burning your tongue from hot soup can be quite uncomfortable, and it’s understandable to be concerned about any lingering pain or discomfort in your throat or stomach. Based on your description, it seems that you have experienced a thermal injury to your tongue, which is a common occurrence when consuming hot foods or liquids too quickly.
In most cases, minor burns to the tongue and mouth can heal on their own within a few days to a week, as the oral mucosa is quite resilient. However, if you are experiencing ongoing pain in your stomach or esophagus, it may warrant further investigation.
The symptoms you describe—occasional stomach pain and discomfort in the esophagus—could be related to the thermal injury. When the mucosal lining of the mouth, throat, or esophagus is burned, it can lead to inflammation and irritation, which may cause pain or discomfort. If the pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Regarding the need for an endoscopy, this procedure is typically recommended if there are significant concerns about damage to the esophagus or stomach, especially if you experience symptoms such as severe pain, difficulty swallowing, or if the pain does not improve over time. An endoscopy allows a doctor to visually examine the lining of the esophagus and stomach and can help identify any potential injuries or conditions that may require treatment.

It’s also important to consider other factors that could contribute to your symptoms. For instance, if you have a history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other gastrointestinal issues, these could also be exacerbated by the thermal injury. Additionally, if you have been eating quickly and under stress, this could lead to swallowing air, which may cause discomfort.

If you decide to seek medical attention, it would be beneficial to visit a gastroenterologist, who specializes in digestive system disorders. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether an endoscopy or other diagnostic tests are necessary.
In the meantime, here are some self-care measures you can take to alleviate discomfort:
1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, preferably cool or room temperature, to soothe the burn and keep your throat moist.

2. Avoid Irritants: Stay away from spicy, acidic, or very hot foods and beverages until your symptoms improve.

3. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: If the pain is bothersome, consider using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, following the recommended dosages.

4. Soft Foods: Stick to soft, bland foods that are easier to swallow and less likely to irritate your mouth and throat.

5. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms. If they worsen or new symptoms arise, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while minor burns to the tongue and mouth typically heal without intervention, persistent pain in the stomach or esophagus may require further evaluation. If your symptoms do not improve or if you have concerns about your health, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.

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