A white coating on the tongue can be alarming. It can occur from debris on the tongue or as a result of inflammation on the surface of the tongue. White coatings can also develop as a symptom of infection or reactions from medications. When a white coating on the tongue has other symptoms associated with it, it may be a sign of an underlying medical condition. A doctor or dentist can assist in diagnosing and treating individual causes of white coating on the tongue.
Dehydration
Dehydration occurs from the loss of body fluids or not drinking enough water. Anyone can develop the condition, but it occurs most often in children and adults. Excessive sweating, fever, vomiting, diarrhea or an illness can factor into dehydration. The signs and symptoms of dehydration range from mild to severe and can affect many people differently. The most common symptoms of dehydration include increased thirst, weakness, dry mouth, swollen tongue, decreased urine and dizziness. The cause of a white tongue increases with dehydration as a result of a dry, sticky mouth and inflammation of the papillae on the surface of the tongue. Dehydration can also cause debris and food particles to stick to the tongue and cause a white coating.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a form of yeast infection caused by the yeast Candida. The yeast infection accumulates on the mucous membrane linings of the mouth and tongue. Thrush is a common condition in infants and those with weakened immune systems. People with cancer, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, and poor nutrition and hygiene are more susceptible to the condition. MedlinePlus reports that taking antibiotics over an extended period can also lead to oral thrush because the medication can kill healthy bacteria that fight off infections. The condition usually causes white and velvety lesions on the mouth and tongue that slowly increase, cracking at the corners of the mouth, and slight bleeding if the lesions break. Other symptoms include cottony mouth, pain and loss of taste, for some.
Oral Lichen Planus
Oral lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects the mouth. The condition commonly occurs on the inside of the cheeks and on the gums and tongue. The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but experts believe that certain medications, allergens, immune reactions and disorders such as hepatitis C can factor into the condition. Oral lichen planus also occurs more often in middle-aged women and may increase the risk of mouth cancer, warns MayoClinic.com. Symptoms of oral lichen planus include dry mouth; lacy, raised patches of tissue that gradually increase in size; pain and tenderness; white spots on the tongue; and lesions that may form painful ulcers. The condition may also affect other parts of the body, such as the skin, scalp, genitals and nails.
