Tongue Problem Basics: Sore or Discolored Tongue and Tongue Bumps
Though often hailed as "the strongest muscle in the body," the tongue is actually made up of a group of muscles that allow us to taste food, swallow, and talk. A healthy tongue is pink and covered with small nodules called papillae.
Because you use your tongue constantly, it can be frustrating and uncomfortable when you experience tongue problems, including discoloration and soreness. There are a variety of causes for a number of common tongue symptoms. Fortunately, the majority of tongue problems are not serious and most can be resolved quickly.
In some instances, however, a discolored or painful tongue can indicate more serious conditions, including vitamin deficiencies, AIDS, or oral cancer. For this reason, it is important to seek medical advice if you experience any ongoing problems with your tongue.
What causes white tongue?
There are a number of things that can cause a whitish coating or white spots to develop on the tongue, including the following:
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Leukoplakia. This condition causes cells in the mouth to grow excessively. That, in turn, leads to the formation of white patches inside the mouth, including on the tongue. Although not dangerous on its own, leukoplakia can be a precursor to cancer. So it is important for your dentist to determine the cause of the white patches on your tongue. Leukoplakia can develop when your tongue has been irritated and is often found in people who use tobacco products.
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Oral thrush. Also known as candidiasis, oral thrush is a yeast infection that develops inside the mouth. The condition results in the formation of white patches that are often cottage cheese-like in consistency on the surfaces of the mouth and tongue. Oral thrush is most commonly seen in infants and the elderly, especially denture wearers, or in people with compromised immune systems. People with diabetes and people taking inhaled steroids for asthma or lung disease also can get thrush. Oral thrush is more likely to occur after the use of antibiotics, which may kill the "good" bacteria in the mouth. Eating plain yogurt with live and active cultures may help restore the proper fauna in your mouth. Additionally, medications may be used to combat the infection.
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Oral lichen planus. If you have a network of raised white lines on your tongue that has a lace-like appearance, you may be suffering from oral lichen planus. Doctors are often unable to determine the cause of this condition, which often resolves on its own. Practicing proper dental hygiene, avoiding tobacco, and limiting your consumption of foods that cause irritation to your mouth may helpful.
Next: What causes red tongue or strawberry tongue? »
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Thrush »
What causes thrush?
Small amounts of the candida fungus are present in the mouth, digestive
tract, and skin of most healthy people and are normally kept in check by other
bacteria and microorganisms in the body. However, certain illnesses, stress, or
medications can disturb the delicate balance, causing the fungus candida to
grow out of control, causing infection.
Medications that upset the balance of microorganisms in the mouth and may
cause thrush include corticosteroids, antibiotics, and birth control pills.
Illnesses or medical situations that make candida infection more likely to
develop include uncontrolled diabetes, HIV infection, cancer, dry mouth, or pregnancy (caused by the
hormonal changes that occur with pregnancy). People who smoke or wear dentures
that don't fit properly also are at increased risk for thrush. In addition,
babies can pass the infection to their mothers during breast-feeding.
What are the symptoms o...
Read the Thrush article »
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