Glossitis
An INFLAMMATION of the tongue that is typically the result of irritation, viral or bacterial INFECTION, vitamin B deficiency, or ANEMIA. Glossitis may also develop as an opportunistic condition in people who have IMMUNE SYSTEM disorders.
A rare though potentially life-threatening complication of glossitis is swelling that causes the tongue to block the airway. This requires emergency medical attention.
In glossitis, the tongue often hurts, has a characteristic “beefy” appearance, and has a surface that is deep red and smooth. Swallowing and speaking may be difficult. Most glossitis responds to corticosteroid mouthrinses to reduce the inflammation. Mouthrinses with diphenhydramine may also bring relief. A bacterial infection requires treatment with ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS; a yeast infection requires treatment with ANTIFUNGAL MEDICATIONS. Dietary changes or nutritional supplements are necessary when vitamin B or iron deficiency is the cause. Appropriate treatment typically resolves the symptoms, and the tongue returns to normal.
A rare though potentially life-threatening complication of glossitis is swelling that causes the tongue to block the airway. This requires emergency medical attention.
In glossitis, the tongue often hurts, has a characteristic “beefy” appearance, and has a surface that is deep red and smooth. Swallowing and speaking may be difficult. Most glossitis responds to corticosteroid mouthrinses to reduce the inflammation. Mouthrinses with diphenhydramine may also bring relief. A bacterial infection requires treatment with ANTIBIOTIC MEDICATIONS; a yeast infection requires treatment with ANTIFUNGAL MEDICATIONS. Dietary changes or nutritional supplements are necessary when vitamin B or iron deficiency is the cause. Appropriate treatment typically resolves the symptoms, and the tongue returns to normal.
