Most common diseases of the tongue

The tongue is one of the most important, yet underestimated muscles and organs of the body. Its functions are to detect flavors through the taste buds, as well as to intervene in chewing, but also in phonation, vocalization and swallowing. In addition, the salivary glands keep the mouth moist. But there are many diseases that can affect the tongue and, in some cases, spread to the rest of the body.

Some of the most common diseases affecting the tongue are:

Macroglossia. It is a process that makes the tongue larger than normal in relation to the other parts of the mouth. It is not a serious pathology but it is annoying, since it prevents the patient from speaking, eating or chewing well. It also produces an unsightly effect in the mouth. The origin of macroglossia is usually congenital or hereditary, and it frequently occurs in patients with Down syndrome, Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome or hypothyroidism. It usually affects mostly children, so it is important that parents see a specialist as soon as possible. In this way the best treatment can be established, in an early manner, which will depend on the associated discomfort. If the patient cannot bear the associated discomfort, surgery may be performed to reduce the size of the tongue.
Oral Candidiasis. It is an infection caused by an excess of candida fungus in the mouth. It is characterized by white lesions in some part of the mouth, usually the gums or tongue. Under these lesions there is usually a reddened lower layer that may bleed. It is a disease that mainly affects people with a weak immune system. Hence it can affect adults with chronic diseases or HIV, after chemotherapy or radiotherapy, but also infants, as they have a less developed immune system. It is an infection that can be easily transmitted, with a simple kiss, for example. That is why it is important to take extreme precautions when someone suffers from candidiasis.
Leukoplakia. This is another of the most common lingual diseases, affecting mostly adults. It is characterized by white patches in the mouth, in areas such as the tongue and the inside of the cheeks. Its origin is usually irritative, which can be produced by the teeth themselves, dental prosthesis and even alcohol or tobacco. When the source of irritation disappears, the leukoplakia disappears.
Oral lichen planus. It is the most common infectious pathology in the oral mucosa in general (internal part of the cheeks, floor of the mouth and tongue). It is characterized by producing spots (white or red), of different sizes, which can be asymptomatic or produce symptoms, such as itching or rash. It is an inflammatory and chronic disease, so it will appear and disappear periodically. It is mainly caused by immune disorders or diseases such as hepatitis C. Oral lichen planus is not contagious but, as with any oral lesion, it is important to see a specialist.
Ankyloglossia. It is a problem related to the lingual frenulum, which is too short and does not allow a correct movement. Its origin is not 100% known but it could be genetic. It is an alteration that is detected in newborns or infants, since children with short frenulum have problems sucking when breastfeeding. But the problems extend to sticking out the tongue, eating, swallowing or speaking.
Geographic tongue or benign migratory glossitis. It produces red or white spots on the surface of the tongue, as well as cracks, which give the pathology its name, because it resembles a map. The causes can be many but the most common are a vitamin deficiency, anxiety or stress, hormonal changes in women, genetic predisposition, etc. Sometimes the symptoms of geographic tongue go away all at once but, to help with this, it is necessary to maintain good oral hygiene, avoid tobacco and alcohol, and avoid very hot or spicy foods.
Fissured or scrotal tongue. It is a pathology characterized by cracks on the upper part of the tongue, which may extend to the sides. It is not a serious or contagious disease, but it can affect aesthetics. It does not normally cause discomfort, except for some inflammation or pain in the tongue, as well as halitosis.
Black hairy tongue. It is a disease that causes the tongue to become dark and hairy. Its origin is in an accumulation of dead cells in the taste buds. Despite its unpleasant appearance, it does not usually cause health problems or pain. It is a temporary problem that can be solved with a thorough hygiene of the tongue and teeth, as well as restricting tobacco, alcohol, coffee or black tea.
Tongue cancer. This is the most important and the most serious disease. It can manifest itself as an ulcer or sore that does not heal after two weeks, or as a nonspecific red or white spot. Early diagnosis is essential, so it is very important to see a specialist as soon as possible.

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Most tongue diseases are not serious, but it is important to see a specialist if
it is important to see a specialist in case of any lesion or change.

Prognosis of tongue diseases

Any lesion on the tongue should be checked and supervised by the specialist in Dentistry and Stomatology, the family doctor or the otolaryngologist, as it could be a sign of a possible tongue cancer or oral cancer.

Most tongue diseases are benign and can be cured or can be managed without any problems. Tongue cancer will be the most serious pathology, so early diagnosis and timely treatment is essential for a good prognosis of the disease.

Symptoms of tongue diseases

Tongue problems or diseases include the following symptoms:

Pain
Change in tongue color or texture
Swelling
Difficulty moving the tongue or abnormal tongue movements
Taste disorders
White or red spots or lesions
Ulcers or sores

Medical tests for diseases of the tongue

For any injury to the tongue or mouth, it is important to see a specialist. At the consultation, the most appropriate treatment will be determined, previously performing a sample of the lesion (biopsy) if necessary, or medication will be prescribed directly.

What are the causes of tongue diseases?

The causes of tongue diseases can be infectious, irritative or genetic, basically. There are characteristics that make the patient more prone to suffer from some of these disorders, or to develop them in a specific way.

Can they be prevented?

There are a number of basic and simple tips to maintain proper tongue health. First of all, it is necessary to keep the tongue clean by brushing it well after brushing your teeth. This will help to remove possible bacteria and dead cells. This cleaning of the tongue can be done with a toothbrush or with special scrapers.

There are also other tips for maintaining tongue health. In this sense, it is important to eliminate all those factors that can be irritating, such as broken teeth, crowns or ill-fitting dentures. Tobacco, coffee and alcohol abuse should also be eliminated. The diet should be balanced, and rich in fruits and vegetables, to avoid vitamin deficiencies that can affect the tongue.

Treatments for diseases of the tongue

Treatment will depend on the cause of each tongue disease. While some will need medical or dental treatment, others will heal on their own.

In the case of oral candidiasis, for example, the specialist will usually prescribe an oral antifungal and the patient should rinse several times a day.

In the case of ankyloglossia, the specialist should evaluate the possible discomfort caused by the patient’s short lingual frenulum. If they are not bearable, surgical intervention may be recommended.

What specialist treats it?

Any tongue injury should be reviewed and supervised by the specialist in Dentistry and Stomatology, the primary care physician or the otolaryngologist, who are the three specialists who will be able to best address any oral injury.

Index

What are tongue diseases?