Contents
What is Glossitis?
Glossitis is an inflammation or infection of the tongue that causes it to swell in size, change into different shades of red, and develop a smooth appearance on the surface as the finger-like projections on the surface of the tongue, called papillae, may be lost. The tongue is the small, muscular organ in the mouth that helps you chew and swallow food. It also helps with your speech. Glossitis is also called smooth tongue and burning tongue syndrome.Recovery Time
The condition usually improves within few days with proper treatment.Diagnosis
Diagnosis is done by physical examination of the mouth and in some cases the samples of your saliva and blood may be taken and sent to a laboratory for further examination.FAQs prepared by doctor
1. What is glossitis?Glossitis is an inflammation or infection of the tongue that causes it to swell in size, change into different shades of red, and develop a smooth appearance on the surface as the finger-like projections on the surface of the tongue, called papillae, may be lost. Glossitis is also called smooth tongue and burning tongue syndrome.
2. What are its symptoms?
Its symptoms may include swelling of the tongue or smooth appearance of the tongue with soreness, pain or tenderness in the tongue and difficulty in chewing, swallowing, or speaking. Tongue color changes (usually dark "beefy" red) in glossitis.
3. What to do when such condition arises?
- Limit the movement of the tongue
- Avoid all kinds of spicy food and food that is warmer than the temperature of your tongue
- Maintain oral hygiene. Brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day and floss at least once a day.
One shall consult a doctor if one has any inflammation in the tongue or breathing, speaking, chewing, or swallowing is difficult or changes in the color of the tongue which persist for more than 10days. If severe tongue swelling appears that blocks the airway and interferes with breathing then one shall consult doctor immediately.
Visitor Rating: 5 Stars