The tongue is a strong muscle in the mouth that provides taste, aids in chewing and swallowing, and helps to form words. Diseases of the tongue can cause pain, swelling and a change in normal appearance. There are a number of diseases that can affect the tongue and, although irritating, most are minor conditions that usually clear up quickly and do not pose any serious health threats.
Burning Mouth Syndrome
Burning mouth syndrome is a condition characterized by a burning sensation on the tongue, lips and palate. This burning sensation usually begins in the morning, increases in severity over the course of the day and then diminishes overnight. In addition to a burning sensation, other symptoms of burning mouth syndrome include numbness on the tip of the tongue or in the mouth, metallic taste and dry, sore mouth. Causes of burning mouth syndrome vary from person to person and include injury to the nerves that control pain and taste, hormone changes, nutritional deficiencies, acid reflux, anxiety or depression. Treatment for burning mouth syndrome is aimed at treating the underlying cause of the condition. Temporary soothing techniques, such as sucking on ice cubes, chewing sugarless gum and sipping water, may be used until proper treatment can be determined.
Glossitis
Glossitis is characterized by acute or chronic inflammation and change in color of the tongue. Papillae, which are small finger-like projections that cover the tongue, are diminished as a result of the inflammation and the tongue acquires a smooth appearance. Other symptoms include soreness and tenderness of the tongue and difficulty chewing, swallowing or speaking. Glossitis can occur on its own or can be a result of other conditions such as infection, exposure to irritants, chemical injury, anemia, dry mouth or nutritional deficiencies. If glossitis appears independently, medications to reduce inflammation may be prescribed. If glossitis occurs as a result of another condition, treatment will focus on the underlying condition. Good oral hygiene practices are also important in treating glossitis and preventing recurrences.
Black, Hairy Tongue
Black, hairy tongue is a temporary condition that is characterized by an overgrowth of bacteria on the tongue, giving it a black, fuzzy appearance. In addition to a change in appearance, other symptoms of black, hairy tongue include metallic taste in the mouth, bad breath and gagging. There are several possible causes for the development of black, hairy tongue, including changes in normal mouth bacteria following the use of antibiotics, poor oral hygiene, breathing through the mouth, certain medications or mouthwashes and heavy tobacco use, notes MayoClinic.com. Black, hairy tongue usually diminishes on its own without treatment. Proper brushing and flossing can decrease the time it takes for the condition to disappear and help prevent recurrences.
