The inflammation of the tongue is medically termed as glossitis. Fingerlike projections on the surface of the tongue (called papillae) are lost, causing the tongue to appear smooth.
Known causes
Lifestyle, diet, allergies, infections and environmental factors might be the many causes for a red flared tongue.
Mechanical irritation or injury from burns, rough edges of teeth or dental appliances, or other trauma can lead to glossitis. But the main factors include Bacterial or viral infections, mainly oral herpes simplex. Disorders such as iron deficiency anemia, pernicious anemia and other B-vitamin deficiencies, oral lichen planus, erythema multiform, aphthous ulcers, pemphigus vulgaris and syphilis can also cause glossitis.
Allergic reaction to toothpaste, mouthwash, breath fresheners, dyes in candy, plastic in dentures or retainers, or certain blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors) and exposure to irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, hot foods or spices can also cause the disorder.
Identify it
Glossitis symptoms occur with inflammation or swelling of the tongue. Glossitis symptoms may include tenderness or redness of the tongue. Sometimes people will develop swelling or ulceration.
White patches or smooth areas may be noted in patients with glossitis symptoms. Also, the tongue becomes tender and smooth and the patients might develop difficulty while chewing and swallowing.
Prevention
Good oral hygiene (thorough tooth brushing and flossing and regular professional cleaning and examination) may help prevent glossitis.
Treatment
Pay a visit to your doctor if you are experiencing blocked airway, agonising discomfort, glossitis symptoms for over week, suspect bacteria infection or cancer and speaking, chewing, swallowing hindrances. The goal of the treatment for glossitis is to cure the inflammation.
This is possible by curing the underlying factor of the inflammation, and subsequently reducing the discomfort.
If you suspect your glossitis is caused by an allergy, antihistamine treatment can help relieve your swollen tongue.
Generally, drugs containing corticosteroids are used to reduce the symptoms of glossitis such as redness and swelling.
Antibiotics, anti-fungal medications, or other antimicrobials may be prescribed if the glossitis is due to an infection. Dietary changes and supplements are used to treat anemia and nutritional deficiencies. Avoid irritants (such as hot or spicy foods, alcohol, and tobacco) to reduce any tongue discomfort.
Anemia and nutritional deficiencies must be treated, often by dietary changes or other supplements.