Glossitis
Glossitis is a problem in which the tongue is swollen and inflamed. This often makes the surface of the tongue appear smooth. The condition causes the tongue to swell and change color and texture. When severe, it may cause pain and impact how you eat or speak.
Types of glossitis –
There are different types of glossitis, which include:
• Acute glossitis
Acute glossitis is an inflammation of the tongue that appears suddenly and often has severe symptoms. This type of glossitis typically develops during an allergic reaction.
• Chronic glossitis
Chronic glossitis is an inflammation of the tongue that continues to recur. This type may begin as a symptom of another health condition.
• Atrophic glossitis
Atrophic glossitis, also known as Hunter glossitis, occurs when many papillae are lost. This results in changes in the tongue’s color and texture. This type of glossitis typically gives the tongue a glossy appearance.
Symptoms –
The symptoms of glossitis vary from person to person. They may also differ according to the underlying cause of the condition.
Common symptoms of glossitis include:
• a swollen tongue
• pain in the tongue
• burning or itching in the tongue
• change in the texture of the surface of the tongue due to the change in the size and shape of papillae
• different color of the tongue’s surface
• loss of ability to speak or eat properly
• difficulty swallowing
Causes –
A few factors can cause inflammation of the tongue, including:
• Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions to medications, food, and other potential irritants may aggravate the papillae and the muscle tissues of the tongue. Irritants include toothpaste and certain types of medications that treat high blood pressure.
• Diseases
Certain diseases that affect your immune system may attack the tongue’s muscles and papillae. Herpes simplex, a virus that causes cold sores and blisters around the mouth, may contribute to swelling and pain in the tongue.
• Low iron levels
Not enough iron in the blood can trigger glossitis. Iron regulates cell growth by helping your body make red blood cells, which carry oxygen to your organs, tissues, and muscles. Low levels of iron in the blood may result in low levels of myoglobin.
• Mouth trauma
Trauma caused by injuries to the mouth can affect the condition of your tongue. Inflammation may occur because of cuts and burns on the tongue or dental appliances like braces placed on your teeth.
Risk Factors –
You may be at risk for tongue inflammation if you:
• have a mouth injury
• eat spicy foods
• wear braces or dentures that irritate your tongue
• have herpes
• have low iron levels
• have food allergies
• have an immune system disorder
Diagnosis –
You may see your dentist or doctor for an assessment of your condition. They’ll examine your mouth to check for abnormal bumps and blisters on your tongue, gums, and soft tissues of your mouth. Samples of your saliva and blood may also be taken and sent to a laboratory for further examination.
Treatment –
Any pain or discomfort will probably get better on its own. But if you have severe, constant pain, medication can help. Your doctor or dentist may prescribe –
• Over-the-counter pain relievers
• Anti-inflammatories
• Mouth rinses with anesthetic
• Corticosteroids that you put on your tongue
• Zinc supplements
Ayurvedic Perspective
Vata, pitta and kapha dosha move through all channels of circulation. Due to the subtle nature of vata it impels the remaining two doshas.
The aggravated vata having provoked these two doshas, exacerbated and fills up the empty channels and moves greatly inside them or by getting enveloped by the other doshas. The aggravated doshas reside in the tongue and produce inflammation.
Procedures
• Gandusha and kavala – gargling
• Dandadhavana – tooth cleaning
• Jihwa nirlekhana – tongue cleaning
Medications for Glossitis
• Punarnavadi kashayam
• Guduchyadi kashayam
• Triphala guggulu
• Khadiradi vati
• Sitopaladi churna
Prevention –
It may not always be possible to prevent glossitis. However, a person can lower their riskTrusted Source of developing the condition by –
• maintaining a healthful diet
• practicing good oral hygiene with regular brushing, flossing, and mouthwashes
• avoiding irritants, such as spicy foods, cigarettes, and acidic foods
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