Medical Health Encyclopedia

Tongue problems

TEMPORARY SWELLING AND COLOR CHANGES

These occur with inflammation of the tongue (glossitis). Papillae are lost, causing the tongue to appear smooth. Geographic Tongue (benign migratory glossitis) is a patchy form of glossitis where the location of inflammation and appearance changes from day to day.

HAIRY TONGUE

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This is a harmless condition that involves enlargement and profusion of tongue papillae, causing the tongue to appear hairy or furry. Hairy tongue is not a harmful disorder, although its appearance can be worrisome. The disorder usually clears with antibiotics.

BLACK TONGUE

This occurs occasionally. The upper surface of the tongue turns black or brown in color, and in some cases the papillae elongate. This is an unsightly condition but not harmful.

PAIN IN THE TONGUE

This may occur with glossitis and geographic tongue. It may also occur in some post-menopausal women (for unknown reason) and with diabetic neuropathy. The tongue may be a site of oral cancer, mouth ulcers, and leukoplakia.

Common Causes:

• Minor infections or irritations are the most common cause of tongue soreness.
• A viral ulcer or "canker sore" commonly appears on the tongue (or anywhere in the mouth) for no apparent reason. While it is not medically proven some doctors believe that viral ulcers are linked to emotional stress, fatigue, or lowered resistance.
• Injury (biting the tongue) can cause painful sores.
• A hangover or an allergic reaction to food or medication can cause a swollen tongue.
• Heavy smoking will irritate the tongue and make it painful.
• A smooth and pale tongue surface suggests nutritional (vitamin B-12) deficiencies.
• A coated tongue may be caused by dehydration, oral sex, or antibiotic side effects (such as thrush).
• An allergic reaction to food or medication can cause tongue swelling.
• A "hairy" appearing tongue (hairy leukoplakia ) is a complication of AIDS.