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The tongue of a healthy person has a pinkish color and is smooth. However, we do not always have the tongue in this desirable condition, and it is good to know what changes in its color and surface quality indicate.
White coating on the surface of the tongue
If you notice a white coating on the surface of your tongue, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. It may be a yeast infection, which is a sign of reduced immunity. Smoking is also a risk factor for developing this condition. It is also important to rule out cancer, because one of its symptoms can also be a whitish tongue.
Brown or even blackish coating on the surface of the tongue
Most of us probably automatically associate this problem with insufficient oral hygiene, but it can also be a medical issue, especially in people with diabetes, or in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Sometimes a tongue colored this way is also the result of taking certain antibiotics. To prevent a possible infection in the mouth from spreading, increased cleaning of the teeth is necessary, using a toothpaste or gel and also dental floss.
The tongue is swollen and reddened on the surface
A tongue changed unnaturally like this is usually the result of the body lacking an important B vitamin, typically folic acid or vitamin B12.
To restore balance, it is recommended to increase regular intake of leafy greens, in particular
- spinach
- cabbage
- kale
- head lettuce, and
Cracked surface of the tongue
If cracks appear on the surface of the tongue, it may be an autoimmune disorder and thus signal a greater susceptibility of the organism to various diseases. However, this does not have to be the case in all instances; sometimes this problem resolves on its own. If the issues persist, your general practitioner or possibly your dentist should be informed.
Wavy surface of the tongue
A wavy surface of the tongue is perceived not only visually but also when the tongue contacts the palate or a foreign object. You definitely should not underestimate this situation and should see a doctor so that, with appropriate examination and a more detailed blood test, thyroid disease can be ruled out.
Lesions or ulcers
If lesions or ulcers appear on your tongue and trouble you for more than two weeks, you should seek medical help. The cause of these phenomena can be accumulated stress, which few people avoid in today’s hectic times, but unfortunately also cancerous disease, in which case the earliest possible diagnosis and initiation of necessary treatments is required.
