Geographic tongue Detailed Information

Geographic Tongue is an irritation condition where the tongue extends “Bald” patches often surrounded with a thin white line. It is also known as caring migratory glossitis because the look is constantly changing. Although geographic tongue is benign (harmless) it may persist for months or longer and often recurs. Geographic tongue can cause tongue discomfort and increased sensitivity to hot or spicy foods. But most people, besides seeing a alter in their tongue's appearance, experience no other signs or symptoms. It affects all age groups and you may have first noticed it as a child.

The exact cause is unknown some factors have been linked with the condition. It arises more commonly in patients with psoriasis, especially pustular psoriasis. There are also associations with diabetes, anaemia, atopy and stress it may be related to stress or diets high in sugar or processed foods. Its prevalence also varies by ethnicity and gender (females affected 3 times more than males). In several patients particular foods seem to be a cause, especially cheese. Geographic tongue has polygenic inheritance; it is associated with several different genes. This condition has reportedly occurred in up to 3% of the general population in the United States.

Signs and symptoms of geographic tongue include map-like, or geographic, appearance of the tongue, patches that change size and site from day to day and pain or burning sensation that may worsen with hot, spicy or acidic foods. There is no known treatment. Discomfort may be treated with a mouth gargle or wash containing antiseptic and anaesthetic agents. Topical corticosteroids may also be helpful for occasional employ e.g. triamcinolone in dental paste applied several times a day when required.

Avoid irritating your tongue with boiling or spicy food or alcohol if you are prone to this condition. In addition, several types of toothpaste that contain tartar-control additives, deep flavoring or whitening agents may worsen geographic tongue. You may believe using toothpaste made for sensitive teeth. Some people affected by geographic tongue also report that taking Vitamin B supplements causes the condition to go away temporarily. Some groups mention using anti-inflammatory steroids applied topically clears the patches. Burning may also be diminished by taking antihistamines.