Okay- I have been chewing on my tounge off and on for years.. I knaw on it to the point where I bite through nerves (which I must say hurts good) and where I have no taste buds growing back on both sides of my tounge. The only way I can stop for a little while is when I get desperate enough to burn it with salt. I dont think it's because of stress and I have never smoked.. So, I don't know why I do it or why I can't stop. What should I do? Anyone heard of this before?

P.S. I know I sound like a freak, but I'm a pretty normal person with a wierd problem.

If you can't stop- it's not a habit: it's OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) it's a brain wiring glitch that usually happens (just) prior to puberty. Whatever the newly acquired habit, it gives a boost of pleasure chemicals to the brain, making it hard to stop; whether it's nail-biting, cutting, spitting, counting, hair pulling: whatever.  It becomes a form of self-soothing, too. Though as you've noticed, it doesn't come without a long term price tag.

But, the fact that your issue has such a destructive quality to it, similar to cutting- means Anyone with any sense would  have to recommend professional help. Not only because you're at increased risk for oral cancers and other creepiness, but because this OCD might take an even MORE harmful twist, and you'll want a Dr. already on your case. Get help now. Talk to your primary care provider.

Uhm, hmm..Well for one you don't sound like a freak, it is just a habit, and almost everyone single person has one.



Well all i can really think of is chew on gum, plastic, or anything chewy and then you'll get in to that instead after a while. I hope i helped.



Best wishes.

Try wads and wads of gum or see a specialist.

No, you dont sound like a freak. Most people have at least one habit that they think is abnormal or weird.



This might sound strange, but you could go to a psychiatric appointment (or your general practice Dr. for referral). Usually behaviors that you dont think about when you do them, but cant stop are due to chemical imbalance and they might give you an antidepressant. Note: Antidepressants are not ONLY used for that purpose, they were just named that because it was the first major use for the medication. Tehy can help things from anxiety to behavioral issues like what you are describing. Look up 'hair pulling' or 'skin picking'. I think tongue chewing may be REALLY similar.



You might also want to consult a dentist and they can make sure it isnt due to a nerve problem in your mouth and / or a structural problem with your jawline that is causing you to chew your tongue.