Differential Diagnosis for Numbness of the Tongue
- Single most likely diagnosis
- Trauma or injury to the tongue: This is often the most common cause of numbness of the tongue, as it can result from biting the tongue, dental procedures, or other forms of physical trauma.
- Other Likely diagnoses
- Nutritional deficiencies (e.g., vitamin B12 deficiency): Deficiencies in certain vitamins, especially B12, can cause neurological symptoms including numbness or tingling in the tongue.
- Dental or oral conditions (e.g., abscess, infection): Conditions affecting the teeth, gums, or other oral structures can lead to numbness of the tongue due to inflammation or infection.
- Medication side effects: Certain medications, such as those used for chemotherapy, can cause numbness or altered sensation in the tongue as a side effect.
- Do Not Miss (ddxs that may not be likely, but would be deadly if missed.)
- Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA): Although less common, numbness of the tongue can be a symptom of a stroke or TIA, especially if accompanied by other neurological symptoms such as weakness, difficulty speaking, or vision changes.
- Multiple sclerosis: This chronic autoimmune disease can cause a wide range of neurological symptoms, including numbness or tingling in the tongue.
- Oral cancer: Numbness of the tongue can be an early symptom of oral cancer, making prompt evaluation crucial.
- Rare diagnoses
- Peripheral neuropathy: Conditions that damage the peripheral nerves, such as diabetes or certain autoimmune diseases, can cause numbness or tingling sensations in the tongue.
- Sjögren's syndrome: This autoimmune disorder can cause dry mouth and numbness or tingling in the tongue among other symptoms.
- Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis): Certain neurodegenerative diseases can cause numbness or altered sensation in the tongue, although this is relatively rare.