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Geographical language is otherwise known as the migrating erythema of the tongue. Characteristic of this ailment are light and dark spots on the tongue. In some cases, the geographical language may indicate an illness.
Geographic language – definition
Geographic tongue is mild glossitis, also called erythema migrans of the tongue. Rarely, changes appear elsewhere, e.g. on the inside of the cheeks. The geographical language may be hereditary and does not indicate any disease entity, but in the event of its sudden appearance, consult a doctor. If the geographic tongue appeared suddenly, this may indicate inflammation of the mucosa. The physician must first determine if the patient has the habit of biting the tongue, as this is a common reason for the development of inflammation in this area.
Geographic language – symptoms
The geographical language owes its name to the fact that light and dark spots form on the muscle, which can sometimes be reminiscent of a map. Darker areas are areas that peel off intensely. Sometimes there is also local enlargement of the nipples. The migratory erythema disappears and appears in different places and configurations, the “islet” spots are sometimes smaller, sometimes larger. Burning may appear when consuming sour or hot foods. The complication is that the unevenness of the tongue makes it easier for fungi and bacteria to start working, multiplying and causing infections.
Geographic language – causes
While scientists aren’t sure why the geographic language develops, it has been found to occur with several conditions. One of them is psoriasis. Diabetes may be another cause of this symptom. Therefore, the doctor treating the patient should first of all perform general examinations – especially blood tests. It is also said that geographic language may be genetic, and still others argue that the phenomenon is completely normal, not related to any disease, and not contagious.
Risk factors:
- Inheritance;
- psychosomatic stimuli;
- stress;
- pregnancy.
Geographic language – treatment
In fact, geographic language is not cured. We can possibly relieve pain with painkillers or topical steroid drugs. Sometimes, however, the geographical language appears as a result of some ailment, e.g. mycosis. In such a situation, the doctor prescribes appropriate antifungal agents (an antifungal diet, however, gives a better effect). If we are allergic, it will be helpful to exclude allergens from the diet. Sometimes changes to the tongue are caused by a deficiency of vitamin B – in this case it is enough to increase its supply in the daily diet.
It may be better to avoid acidic and spicy foods. Also, discontinuing nuts, red wine, alcohol, onions, garlic, sour fruit or tomatoes is effective. Patients with a geographical language should remember about oral hygiene.
See also: “Black hairy tongue” – a disease that can be caused by taking large amounts of antibiotics
http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Geographic_tongue.JPG fot. Martanopue