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- In this condition, the papillae (tiny, red, raised areas), which normally cover the surface of the tongue, shrink or disappear and the tongue (a muscle) wastes away -- giving the tongue a thin, shiny appearance (smooth). The tongue may also show patches of redness and inflammation (swelling, irritation, and pain).
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- Red patches on the tongue
- Red, swollen, painful tongue
- Sensitivity to spicy foods
- Bad Breath
- There may be ulcers (open sores) on the tongue or mouth
- Other signs depending on the underlying cause
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- History of symptoms, medications, illnesses, allergies, habits, nutritional habits
- Medical exam may reveal abnormality in tongue or other areas within the mouth and signs of underlying disease.
- Referral may be made to a dentist or oral (mouth) surgeon for further evaluation.
- Biopsy or taking a piece of the area involved may be necessary.
- Blood tests may be done which include tests for anemia and vitamin levels.
- Cultures (using KOH, a dye that can pick up candida and other fungi) or scraping the tongue may reveal an infection
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- Nutritional deficiencies
- Poor areas with inadequate nutrition such as third world countries
- Smoking
- Chewing tobacco
- Alcohol
- Excessive use of mouth wash, tooth paste
- Hot foods
- Spicy foods
- Burns
- Dentures
- Poor oral hygiene
- Weakened immune system (natural body defenses) as in AIDS and cancer
- Chemotherapy (cancer-killing drugs) and other toxic medications
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- Treat underlying cause (i.e., use vitamin therapy for particular deficiencies)
- Pain may be treated with anesthetic (numbing) mouth rinses, such as viscous Lidocaine, Benadryl solution Orabase, and even sodium bicarbonate.
- Nystatin suspensions can be used as a rinse for treatment of candidiasis.
- Antifungal (Diflucan) or antibiotic (penicillin) pills may be necessary if more severe fungi or bacteria infections are involved.
- Avoid alcohol or tobacco.
- Use mild toothpaste or mouth washes without alcohol.
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-
Speak to
your dentist or doctor as soon as convenient. If severe
tongue swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash appear
rapidly (over several minutes or within one hour) call
911
.
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