GEOGRAPHIC TONGUE
This is a condition that gets its name from its map-like appearance on the upper surface of the tongue. It may occur in other areas of your mouth, as well. It is generally harmless as it is not linked to any infection or cancer. The other medical or technical names for geographic tongue are benign migratory glossitis and erythema migrans. It has been observed in up to 3% of people, and can be found at any age. However, it tends to affect middle-aged or older adults more often. It appears to be more common in women than in men.
What are the signs of Geographic Tongue?
The signs of geographic tongue are irregular, smooth, red patches on parts of the tongue. These patches may have a white or light-colored border; the patches vary in size, shape, and color; may appear in one area, and then move to another area; the shapes and appearance may change very quickly in days, weeks, or months and in some instances may last up to a year. You may NOT know that you have geographic tongue until your dentist or other health worker diagnoses it during an oral examination. However, about one in 10 people with geographic tongue may have mild discomfort or a burning or painful sensation on the tongue but this is usually from sensitivity to substances such as: spicy or acidic foods; cigarette smoke; and toothpaste.
What causes Geographic Tongue?
This condition occurs when parts of the tongue are missing layers of small hair-like bumps called papillae. They normally cover the entire upper layer of your tongue. Why do you lose these papillae with geographic tongue? Nobody knows for sure. However, because geographic tongue tends to run in families, genetics may be a common link. It is worth noting that geographic tongue has also been observed more frequently in people with psoriasis and in those with fissured tongue. In fissured tongue, cracks and grooves appear on the tops and sides of the tongue (see image below).
What is the treatment for Geographic Tongue?
A good start is to see a dentist or doctor in order to rule out any more serious problems you might have. In most cases your doctor can diagnose geographic tongue from examining your mouth and tongue. No tests required. However, you may need tests to rule out other medical conditions that are associated with geographic tongue as earlier stated.
In most cases, any pain or discomfort will get better without treatment. But if you have severe, ongoing pain, medication can help. If you're wondering about steps you can take at home to quicken the relief of symptoms, try limiting these substances or avoid them altogether: tobacco; spicy, or acidic foods or dried, salty nuts; toothpaste with additives, whitening agents, or heavy flavouring (toothpaste for sensitive teeth is a better choice)
Go look in the mirror and see what type of tongue you might have. If you are not sure consult your doctor.
(Image by Cleveland Clinic)
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