Herpangia

Also known as hand, foot, mouth disease, herpangia---not related to the herpes virus as the name implies---is caused by the coxsackievirus. Appearing mostly in young children, it manifests as a blister surrounded by a red ring, accompanied by painful swallowing, loss of appetite and drooling. Pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene says herpangia heals within three to six days without antibiotics.

HSV-1

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) appears as a blister on the tongue and will fade over time. According to WebMD, the virus never leaves a person's system, and stressful situations or even excessive sun exposure can reactivate it.

Food Allergies

AyurvedicCure.com says a mild allergy may cause small white blisters to appear on the tongue in conjunction with an upset stomach.

Burn or Injury

Blisters and a swollen tongue can follow a mouth injury or when a person consumes food or drink too hot for the tongue's sensitive skin. Rinsing the mouth with warm water can reduce swelling and allow blisters to heal, says AyurvediCure.com.

Treatments

Over-the-counter medications or home remedies---such as rinsing with a saline solution or the use of ice---can relieve pain until the blisters heal. AyurvedicCure.com suggests slowly drinking one teaspoon of turmeric mixed into one cup of milk to promote healing.

Source:

Dr. Greene: Herpangina

Treat Blisters: Get Rid of Your Tongue Blisters

Ayurvedic Cure: Causes and Treatment of Blisters on Tongue

More Information:

University of Maryland Medical Center: Mouth Sores

WebMD: Understanding Cold Sores