Causes of Ludwig angina

Ludwig angina affects the tissues under the tongue and the floor of the mouth. Dental infection, a tooth abscess, mouth injury or recent dental work can allow bacteria to spread into these spaces. Typical features include painful swelling under the jaw, a swollen tongue, difficulty swallowing, drooling, muffled speech and difficulty opening the mouth. The infection can progress quickly, so it is not suitable for home observation alone.

The name can be confused with [Angina](/conditions/angina/), which describes heart-related chest discomfort. [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/) and heart symptoms need a separate emergency assessment; an ECG may be used for that concern, but it does not diagnose the mouth infection.

If Ludwig angina is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately and do not try to drain a swelling yourself. Clinicians may protect the airway, give antibiotics through a vein, and treat the dental source once breathing and swallowing are safe. Do not delay care while waiting for a dental appointment.

Call emergency services for trouble breathing, noisy breathing, blue or grey lips, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing tongue or neck swelling, confusion or collapse. Any new floor-of-mouth swelling with fever, severe tooth pain or difficulty swallowing needs urgent same-day assessment.

Ask where the infection began, how your airway is being monitored, which treatment is needed, and when the dental source can be treated safely. Tell the team about allergies and medicines you take.