9 Things Your Tongue Is Trying to Tell You About Your Health

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A human body is unique in many ways. It sends us signals about problems and sicknesses that we often don’t even know about and the tongue is no exception. There are a lot of things you can say about your health judging by your tongue.

A strawberry red colour

This may be an indicator that you don’t get enough vitamins. If the tongue is shiny or strawberry red, it means that you don’t have enough iron or vitamin B12. Later, the tongue can become more smooth because most of the taste buds will smoothen out. In severe cases, there may be strong pains when drinking hot beverages and eating spicy foods. You should see a doctor and reconsider your diet.

Black or brown plaque

Black or brown plaque on the tongue can look quite scary but most of the time it is only a sign of bad hygiene, smoking, or drinking a lot of coffee or black tea. As a result, there can be an unpleasant smell from the mouth and taste anomalies (difficulties recognizing tastes). The first thing you should do is give up the bad habits that cause the plaque and brush not only the teeth but also the tongue every day.

A lot of white plaque

White plaque that is a lot like cottage cheese is a sign of a yeast infection or candidiasis. This plaque appears when Candida albicans grows excessively, which consists of the yeast that is present in the mouth of a healthy person. The reasons for this can be different: taking antibiotics, diabetes, a weak immune system, or high blood pressure. It’s recommended to see a doctor.

Furrowed tongue

A furrowed tongue can simply be a sign of ageing (yes, the tongue can also age). Usually, the cracks are safe but if you don’t brush your teeth well enough, an infection can develop. A fungal infection can develop right in the crack and cause severe pain and burning. The problem can be solved with special drugs. Also, if you have tooth implants that were installed the wrong way, you can develop a furrowed tongue.

Small white spots on the tongue

Such spots can be a sign that there is something that is irritating the skin. For example, a tooth that is constantly rubbing on the tongue can cause this. But most of the time, these spots are caused by increased production of cells in people who smoke. 5% to 17% of these cells can be precancer cells. If the spots don’t disappear within several weeks, it is important that you see a doctor and have all the necessary tests done.

Red spots and blisters

 

Red spots and blisters that don’t disappear for a long period of time can be a symptom of a really serious disease. They are often linked to tongue cancer. You should see a doctor immediately.

A burning sensation

It is most common in women going through menopause and is caused by substantial hormonal changes, especially right after menopause starts. If you have this problem, you should see your doctor. Another reason for it could be using the wrong toothpaste: some people are allergic to some ingredients.

Bumps and dimples

This is quite a rare feature that is not dangerous at all. If you don’t have any pain, there is nothing to worry about, but everyone is different.

Painful sores

If you have painful sores, this is a sign of oral thrush, a disease that is most common in children, but 20% of adults also have it. The sores are a signal of stress and a weak immune system. They usually disappear within 2 weeks. In case they don’t, we recommend seeing a doctor. Also, you should have good rest and take better care of your health.

Have you ever noticed such signs on your tongue? Did you do anything about it? Tell us in the comment section below.

Preview photo credit Wikimediadepositphotos.com